First Aid Survey

Recently, I renewed my senior first aid training—a vital refresher that ensures I can handle emergencies confidently. But it also reminded me of an important lesson: first aid stabilizes a patient, while doctors diagnose, treat, and prevent complications.

Imagine this scenario:

You’re walking down the dock and find someone unconscious. Thanks to my training, I can quickly follow the DRABCD protocol—checking for Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation, and applying Defibrillation if necessary—before calling 000 for paramedics.

Once the paramedics arrive, they stabilize the patient and transport them to a hospital, where specialists perform X-rays, blood tests, scans, and a diagnostic workup to uncover underlying issues and prevent further harm.

Now, Think About Your Boat

Inspecting a yacht without a qualified surveyor is like relying on first aid alone—it’s reactive and surface-level. While experienced boaters may spot visible issues, a professional marine surveyor, like Richard Hewson from SALUS Maritime, acts as the specialist doctor for your vessel, equipped with diagnostic tools and expert insight to uncover hidden problems.

A good surveyor doesn’t just “check the vitals.” A good surveyor will:

• Use Advanced Tools: Infrared thermography, moisture meters, and ultrasound thickness gauges to detect hidden faults.

• Analyze Systems Deeply: Electrical systems, plumbing, rigging, hull integrity, and structural soundness.

• Spot Potential Problems Early: Avoid costly repairs by catching issues before they escalate into mechanical or structural failures.

– Advise the buyer: Is this really the right boat for you? How much time and money will it cost in years to come?

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

In medicine, we know prevention is better than cure. The same applies to yachts – no one wants unexpected surgery, and boat owner wants to deal with sudden breakdowns at sea or costly repairs in the shipyard.

Investing in a pre-purchase inspection or routine survey with a trusted professional saves you from:

• Expensive Surgeries: Major repairs or replacements that could have been avoided with early intervention.

• Breakdowns at Sea: Safety hazards and mechanical failures that compromise lives and property.

• Depreciating Value: Poor maintenance can severely impact resale value and insurance claims.

Why Work with a Professional Surveyors such as SALUS Maritime?

With years of experience in yacht surveys, Richard Hewson from Salus Maritime brings the expertise, tools, and industry knowledge necessary to protect your investment. Whether you’re buying a new yacht, refitting an older vessel, or planning a major voyage, his inspections provide peace of mind and practical recommendations for long-term performance.

The Bottom Line

Owning a yacht is a serious commitment—much like managing your health. While basic checks and self-assessments are helpful, trusting a qualified surveyor is the smartest decision to avoid risks and ensure smooth sailing.

Because in both health and yachting, prevention is always better than cure.