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LIVING ABOARD · STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

How to Organize Emergency Contacts and Medical Information Aboard

Create a crew-accessible information plan for travel and offshore passages.

Before you start

Gather the appropriate supplies and review the specific equipment manual.

  • Crew consent
  • Emergency contact list
  • Water-resistant pouch

Step-by-step instructions

0 of 5 steps completed on this device
  1. Ask each crew member what to share

    Collect emergency contact details, medications and clinically relevant information with consent and minimal unnecessary personal data.

  2. Record communication options

    Include marine radio procedures, local emergency resources and offshore contact arrangements.

  3. Make a paper backup

    Store an emergency summary in a known, accessible place and protect it from water damage.

  4. Plan secure digital access

    Keep updated copies available to responsible crew while avoiding public sharing of private medical information.

  5. Review before major travel

    Confirm contact numbers, allergies and equipment access after crew changes or a new cruising region.

Safety note

Sensitive personal information should be limited to people who need it. In a real emergency, activate appropriate rescue and medical services promptly.

Key takeaway

A simple, current contact folder is valuable when ordinary internet access fails.

Keep this job on your maintenance schedule

Save the topic as a maintenance task, choose a due date or engine-hour target, and record future service. Free and stored on your device.

Add to my maintenance planner

This guide is for general education. Follow your equipment manufacturer’s instructions, current navigation guidance and applicable marine safety standards. When uncertain, use a qualified marine professional.

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