Which equipment should crew members be familiar with for emergency procedures?

Crew members should be familiar with both life-saving appliances and fire-fighting equipment because these are essential tools in emergency situations aboard a vessel. Life-saving appliances include life jackets, lifeboats, life rafts, and other flotation devices that are critical for ensuring survival in the event of abandoning ship. Understanding the proper use and deployment of these tools can significantly increase a crew member’s chances of survival in emergencies at sea.

On the other hand, fire-fighting equipment such as extinguishers, hoses, and fixed fire suppression systems are vital for combating on-board fires, which are a common and dangerous hazard. Crew familiarity with these tools ensures that they can effectively respond to a fire, potentially preventing it from escalating and causing further harm to personnel and the vessel.

Being knowledgeable about both categories of equipment enables crew members to respond appropriately in varied emergency scenarios, helping to protect themselves and others on board. This level of preparedness is crucial for maintaining safety standards and fulfilling the responsibilities outlined in STCW training.