Don’t try to cross another boat’s bows if she is under way.
Don’t get frightened if the boat upsets. Crawl up on the bottom over the weather side. A capsized boat will support a number of people in perfect safety.
Don’t take to the water if there is any floating object to cling to. Even an oar will support a person.
Don’t let go of the helm and run about.
Don’t let sails, ropes or garments trail in the water.
Don’t forget that a loaded or heavy boat has more momentum or headway than a light or empty boat.
Don’t trust a squall which you cannot see through.
Don’t use a brand new rope for any part of the running rigging. Stretch it and work it through tackles or over a beam before reeving it through the blocks of your boat.
Don’t sail in a beam wind and sea if it can possibly be avoided.
Don’t forget that if you are obliged to ride out a gale that oars, cushions, thwarts and spare canvas lashed together and attached to a line over the bow will hold the craft to the wind and seas and will also form a “smooth” for the boat.