The BBC documentary this week on "What makes ships sink" reminded me that the UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) of the DfT publish a free Safety Digest 3 or 4 times a year. This covers all types of accidents and safety incidents to Merchant Vesels, Fishing Vessels and Small Craft and all sections are well worth reading by cruising yachtsmen. A free subscription to The Safety Digest may be obtained from MAIB by emailing them at mailpublications@dft.gsi.gov.u?k Safety Digests are also available on the MAIB website at www.gov.uk

Since I posted this message on facebook a few days ago, Art Ross and Priscilla Travis have pointed out that there are similar services and publications available in the USA, which I hope they will also highlight here.

There is a lot in these investgations which is of interest to small boat sailors, even if the incidents take place on large merchant vessels or fishing vessels.