The fear of storms has kept many otherwise competent sailors from venturing into the open ocean. This book explores the myths that have sprung up about ways to bring small boats through storms and shows tried and true methods that work for all types of sailing vessels. Special sections explain storm sail design, sea-anchor technology and tips for preventing gear failure at sea. Included are a series of check lists designed to help potential voyagers chose, then outfit their boat for safe voyaging plus others to prepare them as a storm actually approaches and reassure them once they are in the midsts of heavy winds and seas. Marrio Vittone, a U.S. Coastguard Rescue Swimmer for 14 years, in an unsolicited testimoney, wrote: ''I have been on several rescues (and heard of many more) that would have been completely unnecessary if the sailboat captains aboard would have practiced the skills taught by Lin and Larry Pardey. Not knowing how to heave-to in bad weather is as inexcusable as not knowing 'red, right, return'.''