When out at sea, there are many unforeseen circumstances that can arise, and one of the most daunting is the possibility of having to abandon ship. In such a situation, a well-prepared ditch bag can make all the difference between life and death.

We've compiled a comprehensive list of items to include in your "Ditch Bag" in case of emergency.

Rescue Items

• Functioning, registered EPIRB
• Handheld VHF radio (waterproof or in sealed pouch, with extra batteries)
• Sea anchor, drogue and line
• Manual inflation pump
• Selection of flares (parachute and handheld) and smoke signals
• Strobe light (may be present in inflatable PDF)
• Flashlight & batteries (headlamp is ideal)
• Whistle (may be present in inflatable PDF)
• Signal mirror
• Handheld GPS or compass (for position)
• Small pair of binoculars (to confirm a boat or plane spotting before using flares)

Survival Items

• Sponges and bailer (with handle)
• Patch kit for inflatable dinghy or life raft (or emergency clamps)
• Water (individually sealed or in collapsible containers)- at least 2 gallons per person
• Emergency food rations and can opener (if needed)
• Power bars
• Prescription medications
• Seasickness medications/remedies
• First aid kit
• Multipurpose tool or sailor's knife
• Waterproof matches

Other Items

• Solar blanket
• Heavy-duty coated gloves
• Duct tape
• Sewing kit
• Simple fishing gear (line, jigs, hooks, etc.)
• Polypropylene line
• Waterproof sunscreen and zinc oxide
• Bug repellent
• Ziploc bags (gallon size)
• Paper & pen in Ziploc bag
• Spare prescription glasses and sunglasses (polarized to reduce glare)
• Laminated copies of passports or license
• Cash ($50 in small bills)
• Copy of the yacht's papers (including insurance)

Waterway Guide Community Member Tip: The "Dinghy Bag"

In addition to the main ditch bag on your "big boat," one of our readers suggests preparing a small, soft-sided cooler (6-pack size) to carry in your dinghy for shorter excursions. This "dinghy bag" includes essentials such as:

• Copies of the dinghy's paperwork sealed in a baggie
• Cheap plastic space blankets and rain ponchos ($.99 at Walmart)
• Handheld flares and a signal mirror
• Tiny flashlight, chem light sticks, and whistle
• Mini first-aid kit, bug repellent, and sunscreen
• Small tool kit with spark plugs and shear pins for the dinghy motor
• Small handheld VHF radio

As the reader, Capt Steve Weisbrod wisely points out, "Just because you intend to take the dinghy to the beach or Tiki bar and back doesn't mean it's actually going to happen that way." The little "dinghy bag" might be all that stands between you and an unexpected overnight "dinghy drift." Plus, these small coolers typically come with a shoulder strap, so if you need to tie up the dinghy in an area that's "iffy," you can take the "dinghy bag" with you for added security.

Is it overkill? Maybe. But remember the sailor's rule: "If you have it, you won't need it."

What are some additional items that you have in your Ditch Bag?