What is the primary role of a Coxswain regarding safety?

The primary role of a Coxswain regarding safety is to ensure all equipment is in working order. A Coxswain is responsible for the overall safety of the vessel and its occupants. This includes checking that all safety equipment — such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, and signaling devices — is readily available, functional, and properly stowed. Additionally, the Coxswain must ensure that the vessel itself is seaworthy, which involves thorough inspections of the hull, engines, and navigational equipment before departure.

While leading the team in drills is important for safety training, it is secondary to the critical task of checking equipment. Preparing food for passengers and giving instructional tours, although they may involve a safety component, do not directly relate to the core responsibility of ensuring a safe operating environment on board. Therefore, the focus on equipment readiness underscores the crucial safety aspect of a Coxswain’s duties.