The SNSM is currently testing in pilot and volunteer stations an operation called "courtesy visit". Set up on the occasion of the Port Camargue and Mille Sabord boat shows at Le Crouesty and Agde, this experiment brings boaters and rescuers together to raise awareness of prevention at sea. "C' is an experimental test to see if there's a real and constructive exchange between rescuers and navigators." details Ernest Cornacchia, Prevention Officer at the SNSM
The voluntary stations were equipped with tablets, financed by Axa Yachting Solutions and use an Android application, also developed by Axa, a partner of the SNSM. Equipped with their prevention tools, the rescuers go out to meet boaters, take an inventory of the equipment on board and provide information on how to use it. " It's also a time to interact with trained lifeguards." explains Ernest Cornacchia. At the same time, the rescuers also provide advice, beyond what the regulations impose. " This allows us to exchange and take advantage of the technical skills of the rescuers." adds Ernest.
This operation is mainly aimed at novices or people who are unsure of what to bring. They are carried out free of charge, at the request of the owner and are not intended to penalize the person. Moreover they are anonymous and do not constitute a technical control.
Today, this test operation is being implemented in several stations. " The 1 era was Arzon, next to Lorient, then Agde, Port Camargue and the next ones will be Cherbourg, Marseille and Bandol." indicates Ernest.
