KNRM Helpt 2023.1.4

The KNRM Helps app, the official application of the Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Institution (KNRM), provides a platform for vessel registration, Sail Plan management, and trip tracking via mobile devices.

Users are advised to complete the registration process prior to using the app. The application offers two primary modes: planning and filing a trip (Sail Plan mode) or activating real-time tracking solely during an active journey (Track only mode).

When reporting a planned voyage, users can select their vessel, specify the Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA), input the number of persons onboard, and categorize the activity type. After selecting emergency contacts, users can set starting points, optional waypoints, and destination points utilizing the integrated nautical maps. An optional safety checklist can be managed before departure. Upon completion, the app will automatically alert designated contacts and SAR authorities if the vessel exceeds the scheduled ETA in Sail Plan mode.

Initiating 'Set Sail' in Sail Plan mode or 'Start' in Track only mode registers trip details with KNRM’s server and activates periodic position reporting. The app will periodically transmit location data until the trip is concluded. Users can modify trip parameters such as ETA, crew number, or destination at any time during the journey.

The app enhances maritime safety and planning by providing features such as:

• Integration of Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) data for improved route planning.
• Simple initiation of trip tracking with adjustable recording intervals to optimize battery use.
• Access to nearby maritime services including VHF channels, ports, KNRM lifesaving stations, waterways, diving spots, bunker stations, water sports vendors, shipyards, and boat rental providers.
• The ability to share real-time location with friends and family via a live map for added safety ashore.
• Provision of real-time weather and water condition data relevant to planning or ongoing trips.
• Offline access to essential maritime safety information.
• Creation and management of personalized safety checklists to include in the Sail Plan.
• The option to activate emergency assistance calls directly from the app during a voyage (iPhone only; not available on iPad).

Users can manage their profiles, vessel information, safety checklists, and emergency contacts within the application.

Note that prolonged use of GPS in the background may significantly impact device battery life.

Please consider:

• This app’s functionalities and data are provided under the premise that users utilize their own skills and judgment when using it.
• Maritime safety is paramount. This application's features should not be solely relied upon in an emergency; users should seek additional reliable information and assistance from other sources as needed.
• The app provides position coordinates based on device GPS data, which may be unreliable due to network or signal disturbances. There is no guarantee of continuous connectivity or accuracy. The user accepts all risks associated with using this application.