Open Seas

(1)  Deploy sea anchor (Figure II-11). Sea anchor may be adjusted to make use of existing currents.
(2)  Sit low in the raft.
(3)  Deflate the raft slightly so it rides lower in the water.

(1)  Pull in sea anchor.
(2)  Inflate raft so it rides higher.
(3)  Sit up in raft so body catches the wind.
(4)  Construct a shade cover/sail (Figure II-12). (Sail aids in making landfall.)

Figure II-11. Sea Anchor Deployment

Figure II-12. Shade/Sail Construction

(1)  Fixed cumulus clouds in a clear sky or in a cloudy sky where all other clouds are moving.
(2)  Greenish tint in the sky (in the tropics).
(3)  Lighter colored reflection on clouds (open water causes dark gray reflections) (in the arctic).
(4)  Lighter colored water (indicates shallow water).
(5)  The odors and sounds.

[a] -   Odors from swamps and smoke.
[b] -   Roar of surf/bird cries coming from one direction.

(6)  Directional flights of birds at dawn and at dusk

(1)  Consider physical condition.
(2)  Use a flotation aid.
(3)  Secure all gear to body before reaching landfall.
(4)  Remain in raft as long as possible.
(5)  Use the sidestroke or breaststroke to conserve strength if thrown from raft.
(6)  Wear footgear and at least 1 layer of clothing.
(7)  Try to make landfall during the lull between the sets of waves (waves are generally in sets of 7, from smallest to largest).
(8)  In moderate surf.

[a] -   Swim forward on the back of a wave.
[b] -   Make a shallow dive just before the wave breaks to end the ride.

(9)  In high surf.

[a] -   Swim shoreward in the trough between waves.
[b] -   When the seaward wave approaches, face it and submerge.
[c] -   After it passes, work shoreward in the next trough.

(10)  If caught in the undertow of a large wave--

[a] -   Remain calm and swim to the surface.
[b] -   Lie as close to the surface as possible.
[c] -   Parallel shoreline and attempt landfall at a point further down shore.

(11)  Select a landing point.

[a] -   Avoid places where waves explode upon rocks.
[b] -   Find a place where waves smoothly rush onto the rocks.

(12)  After selecting a landing site--

[a] -   Face shoreward.
[b] -   Assume a sitting position with feet 2 or 3 feet lower than head to absorb the shock of hitting submerged objects.

(1)  Select landing point carefully.
(2)  Use caution landing when the sun is low and straight in front of you causing poor visibility.
(3)  Land on the lee (downwind) side of islands or point of land if possible.
(4)  Head for gaps in the surf line.
(5)  Penetrate surf by--

[a] -   Taking down most shade/sails.
[b] -   Using paddles to maintain control.
[c] -   Deploying a sea anchor for stability.

(1)  Use paddles to avoid sharp edges.
(2)  Store raft away from the ice edge.
(3)  Keep raft inflated and ready for use.
(4)  Weight down/secure raft so it does not blow away.