Where to mount EPIRB on a Freedom 285?

[kas919]

I ask this question because the ACR EPIRB on our boat is mounted inside the storage locker forward of the helm. I have always thought that they should be mounted in a place in which they are not enclosed or unable to reach the surface if necessary. Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks

 

[DennisG01]

I only know the basics about an EPIRB, but I suppose it depends on which kind it is, right? Is the kind that will self-release from the bracket if it gets "x" number of feet underwater? Or is it a manual release (need to physically grab it)?

 

[kas919]

I only know the basics about an EPIRB, but I suppose it depends on which kind it is, right? Is the kind that will self-release from the bracket if it gets "x" number of feet underwater? Or is it a manual release (need to physically grab it)?

It is the kind that will detach and float to the surface.

 

[DennisG01]

So then it probably makes sense to have it in a better area. Although, the reality is that boats don't sink in 8 seconds. There's plenty of time to grab necessary gear like a a go bag, offshore life jackets, etc. And, if the conditions are warranted, jackets should already be one. But, yeah, might as well put it in a better area. Whatever that "better area" is is totally up to you and what makes sense for you and how gear/items/accessories are already stored. Or, if it's in the way (small boats don't have a lot of room), maybe keep it where it is.

 

[Halfhitch]

Most calls for help aren't due to risk of sinking. I would guess that it's from lack of fuel, broken down, grounded, medical emergencies all are more common than going down. That said, I think the manufacturer put it in an out of sight accessible locker, so it is out of the way and since it's an ugly thing that detracts from the aesthetics of the boat they figured the owner can make his own choice as to where he (or she) wants it. If it were me, I would say, out of the way so no one can bang their leg or shoulder on it, fishing line can't get caught on it, rod tips can't get caught behind it, the sun can't bake it, kids can't reach it, dogs can't pee on it etc. I don't know your boat lay-out but to satisfy those things and others that other members here should advise you of, my thoughts would be in some locker somewhere out of the way with a good-sized emblem noting its location.

 

[SkunkBoat]

If the case is an auto release version then it should be mounted on the hardtop or somewhere exposed so that it will float free of the boat.
Not all of the plastic mounting cases are auto release. Look at the ACR site for info.

I opted to put the EPIRB in the ditch bag rather than in a mount.

Where and how you use your boat will be a consideration of whether you need it Auto-release.

 

[SkunkBoat]

So then it probably makes sense to have it in a better area. Although, the reality is that boats don't sink in 8 seconds. There's plenty of time to grab necessary gear like a a go bag, offshore life jackets, etc. And, if the conditions are warranted, jackets should already be one. But, yeah, might as well put it in a better area. Whatever that "better area" is is totally up to you and what makes sense for you and how gear/items/accessories are already stored. Or, if it's in the way (small boats don't have a lot of room), maybe keep it where it is.

A boat may not sink in 8 seconds but you probably don't know its sinking in the first 8 seconds...

 

[Sardinia306Canyon]

A EPIRB with a self release is designed to self release, float upside and start transmitting and that makes sense under certain emergencies. Nowadays there may be different activation systems than the traditionals mounting it upside down and EPRIB right up when floatimng and activates.
Yes, a ERPIRB can be used manually but take care that it does not activate involuntary

Yes, a boat does not sink within 8 seconds, boats sink usually much slower and passengers abandon the boat too early, not uncommon that boat is found still floating but no persons. Consider also that there are much other emergencies where a automatic deploying EPIRB can safe your life, fire, explosion for example. I rescued a sailor whos cabin caught fire due most likely hydrogen explosion of the in cabin installed wet-cell batteries and he was unable to enter the cabin to get the grab bag. He just could take his wallet from the cockpit, deploy the life raft and jump in it.
A Ditch Bag has to be on deck, bright colour and easy to grab in case of quick abandon.

I personally would install a automatic deploying and activating EPRIB in the manner as it was designed for and in a location where it is, if it's ugly or not.
The location to mount it would have to be:

1. accessible to may drop it manually if needed
2. can deploy automatically as designed

BTW: Same above is for life rafts.
Useless if the tangle when boat is sinking and same useless when people is not able to deploy it manually because of position. or weight.

Chris