18 
SURVIVAL GN LAND AND SEA 
certain circumstances can be of tremendous importance to sur- 
vivors. 
Prior to abandoning surface ships, a slip giving course and 
distance to the nearest land is supplied to each boat officer. 
In case of a plane crash or forced landing, occupants of each 
raft (if there is more than one) should be given the same in- 
formation-— if only in approximate terms. This is the respon- 
sibility of the navigator, first or second pilot, or of whoever 
may have the information. 
Wind and Currents 
For the greatest part, the movement of a raft will be governed 
by prevailing winds and currents. These, of course, cannot be 
altered by survivors. However, they sometimes can be intelli- 
gently utilized if the survivor knows the direction he desires 
to go. 
Wind and current do not necessarily move in the same direc- 
tion in a given area. One may be favorable, the other unfavor- 
able. 
The lower the raft rides in the water and the lower its oc- 
cupants remain, the greater will be the effect of current. This 
effect can be increased by the use of a sea anchor or drag if the 
current is setting toward land or toward an area in which your 
patrols are operating. 
On the other hand, if the wind should be favorable, the raft 
should be lightened as much as practical. Survivors should sit 
erect to offer wind resistance. Any sort of makeshift sail would 
be of help. 
