By Bob Payne

If you have a minimum of sailing skills, the dangers you face when chartering are more likely to come from within than from without. Know too that most charter companies monitor a radio channel so you can contact them for advice. (Do not use Channel 16, the international distress channel, to declare an emergency unless you are in danger of losing your life or your boat. Running out of ice, fuel, or into high wind is not an emergency.) To make either of these over-the-airwaves options unnecessary, here are some things to watch for.

Fire.
It almost always starts in the engine compartment or galley and involves fuel. Never try to put one out with water, which will only spread it. Know where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them.

Running Down the Batteries.
Always reserve one battery bank just for starting the engine. (They are usually labeled, "One," "Two," and "All.")

Running Out of Water.
Not the kind you're sailing in, but the kind you wash dishes with, bathe in, and drink. Cut down on the time you spend in the shower, especially if you're alone.

Clogging the Toilet.
The "head" clogs easily, so use (biodegradable) toilet paper sparingly and don't flush anything else you haven't swallowed first.

Losing the Dinghy.
Afloat, attach it to the boat with two lines. Ashore, well, try to come home sober.

Abandoning ship.
Contrary to popular belief, those old sea captains were not being chivalrous when they insisted on going last. Until someone arrives wearing either a uniform or angel's wings, you're almost always better off staying with the boat.

Bob Payne has sailed most of the way around the world. He has been a contributing editor of Sail magazine for 20 years, a contributing editor for Condé Nast Traveler, and a frequent contributor to Outside magazine. Twice a month Bob treats iExplore readers to insights and advice from his latest journeys in his column "i on Adventure."