PRE LAUNCH
GEMINI boats are made to highest standard required for safety at sea. However there are four primary considerations prior to launching your GEMINI. Carriage of Safety equipment, Planning for Operational Variables, Checking Serviceability and understanding human factors at sea.

CONSIDERATIONS
Under duty of care the skipper of the boat is responsible for carriage of appropriate safety equipment for the trip. A good skipper have the means to deal with : -

1. A Man overboard (MOB) situation - Carry personal floatation equipment, PFD’s, a ‘lifeline’ to throw to a person, and ensure that passengers are dressed to minimise hypothermia. GEMINI commmander consoles have dry and wet storage areas. In addition the tubes can be fitted with ‘Pouches’ to carry safety lines.
2. A fire at sea - Fit an appropriate fire extinguisher. GEMINI ‘Commander’ consoles can be ordered with recessed fire extinguisher bays.
3. A breakdown or loss of propulsion from Fuel flow, exhaustion or contamination - problems can be prevented by planning and checking of tanks, filters and lines. In the event of a breakdown, oars , ground tackle, sea anchor and signaling devices may be required. Carriage of a safety grab-bag containing signal flares, ‘V’ sheet, heliograph mirror, torches, sunburn barrier, insect repellent and thermal blankets is recommended. A fuel gauge should be calibrated to show indicated vs actual fuel levels and total usable fuel for a given tank. GEMINI boats can be ordered with an under-floor stainless steel fuel cell(s).
4. An Injury at sea. A first aid kit, and CPR manual appropriate to the activity.
5. An electrical problem. Battery condition and location of all fuses should be known to the skipper. Marine wiring can be isolated using a battery isolator switch and a series of inline fuses and switches for each electrical circuit. GEMINI commander consoles are designed to provide mounting solutions for all necessary gauges, wiring, switches and fuse panels.
6. Any water ingress – Check the drain ‘Bungs’ are in place and that water can be bailed with a bucket or pumped overboard using electrical or hand pumps in the event that it enters the boat unexpectedly. GEMINI boats are supplied with hi-flow air pumps and safety valves. A tube patch repair kit is also supplied with every GEMINI boat.
7. Weather variables – Always obtain a forecast and deal with changes in sea conditions by adjusting your trip plan accordingly. Consider human factors like personal warmth, protection from rain, hydration and exposure to UV.
8. Local knowledge – Check with your GEMINI dealer regarding known local factors and seamanship practices. Take time to talk to experienced staff at the dealer.
9. Serviceability checks – Stop and do a walk around inspection of your GEMINI hull and tubes before launch. Check for signs of damage due to road transport or storage. Any smell of fuel must always be traced to the actual cause/source and never brushed off as normal.
10. A passenger briefing is essential. Take time to inform passengers about their safety prior to launching, advising the location of PFD’s and other safety equipment on board or inside the GEMINI Commander console.