Some advice from Coastguard as the boating season ramps up - and people get the gear out of the shed for the first time.
Make sure you've got the essentials - lifejackets and a VHF radio.
Coastguard's Ray Burge says the speed at which conditions can change, can catch even the most experienced skipper off guard.
He said it's an old cliche - but it really is better to be safe than sorry.
Mr Burge said vessels under six metres in length in particular can sink very quickly, and wearing a lifejacket increases your chances of survival.
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