How should a liferaft be launched by hand?

Launching a liferaft by hand is a critical safety procedure that must be executed properly to ensure the safety of those onboard. The correct method involves throwing the liferaft over the side and then pulling the operating cord. This technique allows the liferaft to inflate and deploy effectively once in the water, ensuring that it is ready for use in an emergency situation.

By throwing the liferaft overboard, it is positioned to enter the water freely, which is essential for activating its inflation mechanism. The state of the water surface and the proximity of the vessel to the waterline are also factors that make this method preferable. The operating cord activates the inflation process, which is crucial for the liferaft to serve its purpose quickly and effectively.

Using force to push the raft into the water may result in improper deployment or damage to the liferaft, while lowering it with tackle could introduce unnecessary complications or delays. Deploying from a height could lead to improper inflation or risk damage, thus making it unsuitable as a launching method. Therefore, the correct method combines safety and efficiency, ensuring that the liferaft is ready to provide support to individuals in need.