Chapter 16

Sea Survival

THE OPEN SEA

PICKUP OR RESCUE

16-107. On sighting rescue craft approaching for pickup (boat, ship, conventional aircraft, or helicopter), quickly clear any lines (fishing lines, desalting kit lines) or other gear that could cause entanglement during rescue. Secure all loose items in the raft. Take down canopies and sails to ensure a safer pickup. After securing all items, put on your helmet, if available. Fully inflate your life preserver. Remain in the raft, unless otherwise instructed, and remove all equipment except the preservers. If possible, you will receive help from rescue personnel lowered into the water. Remember, follow all instructions given by the rescue personnel.

16-108. If the helicopter recovery is unassisted, do the following before pickup:

• Secure all the loose equipment in the raft, accessory bag, or in pockets.

• Deploy the sea anchor, stability bags, and accessory bag.

• Partially deflate the raft and fill it with water.

• Unsnap the survival kit container from the parachute harness.

• Grasp the raft handhold and roll out of the raft.

• Allow the recovery device or the cable to ground out on the water's surface.

• Maintain the handhold until the recovery device is in your other hand.

• Mount the recovery device, avoiding entanglement with the raft.

• Signal the hoist operator for pickup by placing one arm straight out to the side with your thumb up while you hold on with the other. Vigorously splash the water and then raise your arm in the "thumbs up" signal. Once recovered, DO NOT reach for the helicopter or crewman to try to assist him. Allow the aircrew personnel to pull you into the aircraft by themselves.