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From: Craig Rich
Category: Shipwreck Research
Date: 13 Jul 2006
Time: 02:48:53
Remote Name: 24.11.108.138
Interesting question. Having spent five of the past ten days on a search vessel I'd have to say the greatest danger is being bored to death! But seriously, I'd list the potential dangers as: 1. Weather. Being aware of your environment, listening to the marine radio and having a plan are important, especially if you're spending 12-24 hours on on the lake. Having a sixth sense comes in handy too! 2. Bumps and bangs. Depending on the level of sophistication of your equipment, there's always the possibility of injury from heavy objects on a rocking boat. Whether it's the towfish swinging on a crane, cables running through various rollers, etc., or just high waves and potential falls and bumps, something is bounce to happen. 3. MOB. I've never heard of it happening, but I imagine you could easily slip and go overboard. It would take a vessel towing a sidescan sonar some time to come around for you. The professional organizations use "gumby" suits (survival suits) and lifejackets for all crewmembers working in the open, plus most carry epirbs (Emergency position indicating radiobeacons) for location, etc. 4. Damage to the vessel. The boat is going to be scratched and dinged up no matter how hard you try to keep it nice. Heavy objects and rolling seas just don't mix. Plus, there's the wear and tear on the engine, steering mechanism and auto pilot gears. It all adds up to maintenance and replacement parts.
Just a few thoughts. Hope this helps a little.
Craig Rich, Michigan Shipwreck Research Associates, www.michiganshipwrecks.org