In order to educate young people about the importance of safety at sea, the world’s top supplier of marine distress signals, Drew Marine Signal and Safety, is donating flares to the Ocean Youth Trust South (OYT South).

OYT South's Sailing Yacht John Laing

The adventure sail training charity, OYT South, takes people aged 12-25 to sea in its 72-foot sailing yacht John Laing, to learn how to sail and practice vital life saving skills. Many of the young people supported by the charity are disadvantaged or vulnerable and have never been to sea before.

Among the marine distress signals donated to the charity are Pains Wessex Handflares, Lifesmokes and Manoverboards.

Commenting on the charitable donation, OYT South’s Chief Executive, Mark Todd, says, “We aim to give young people an exciting adventure, which they will remember for a lifetime, but to also get them involved as active crew members onboard. Safety is a priority, especially at sea and we have an excellent safety record over more than half a century. If the time should come when we need to use distress signals, the flares generously provided by Drew Marine Signal and Safety could make the difference between life and death – what donation could be more valuable?”

Justine Healey, Managing Director of Drew Marine Signal and Safety says, “Safety at sea is of utmost importance for us and we are delighted to provide the Ocean Youth Trust South with marine distress signals. The charity does fantastic work with young people and we are extremely proud to support them.”

Following the donation, OYT South has invited Drew Marine Signal and Safety to a corporate day on board John Laing yacht.

Drew Marine Signal and Safety manufactures the world leading marine distress signals brands Comet, Pains Wessex and Aurora. It sells to worldwide commercial and leisure marine markets. Its products have been helping to save lives for more than 100 years and are specified by the world’s navies, merchant fleets, fishing vessels, rescue services, airlines and leisure craft.

Drew Marine Signal and Safety is at the forefront of campaigning for improved global marine safety regulations to ensure the safety of mariners throughout the world.