More than 30 of the 43 liferafts which were presented at the Ocean Safety weekend, held in association with Yachting Monthly, were overdue for servicing. Titch Blatchford of Ocean Safety described the carelessness as ‘scary’.

Over 150 yachtsmen turned up for the open weekend at Ocean Safety’s Southampton HQ over the 18-19 February: 40 per cent up on previous years. Titch said:’ The message is getting through to cruising sailors that safety is important. Racing sailors already comply as the requirements are part of the racing rules.’

Life-jackets, dan-buoys and EPIRBS were also brought along for inspection by RNLI experts. To get a free RNLI safety check go to www.oceansafety.com and request a Sea Check.