What To Do When Someone Goes Overboard?

Back

When riding on a boat, it is best to take precautionary measures for the safety of all passengers. This includes, but is not limited to, not overcrowding the boat and having each passenger wear a lifejacket. However, sometimes accidents do happen—like someone falling overboard. If you ever find yourself in this situation, here is what you should do.

At Tracy Motorsports you can find the best deals on boats that meet your needs. Our dealership is conveniently located in Tracy, CA, and we also serve those from Stockton and Modesto.

Items You Must Bring

First, let’s make sure you are aware of what items you should bring to each boating trip. Having these items with you will make the process of recovering an overboard passenger easier and quicker. Remember that every second counts.

Life jackets.
Life ring.
Rope.
Waterproof flashlight.
VHF marine radio.
First-aid kit.

How To React?

Before heading out on the water, be sure to have a small chat with your passengers so that everyone is on the same page and knows what to do and how to react when someone falls overboard.

As loud as you can, shout “Man overboard!” so that everyone is aware of the situation, especially the captain, who needs to stop the boat.
At least one person, but the more the better, should maintain visual contact with the victim.
The captain should turn the boat 180 degrees while having the person focused on the victim call out how close the boat is getting.

How To Approach The Victim?

As you return to the swimmer, follow these steps:

Approach from downwind, or down current, from the swimmer. This helps with maneuverability, preventing the boat from drifting too close to the victim.
Do not approach fast. Keep the boat at a slow, controllable speed.
Once close enough to the victim, throw a flotation device, such as a life ring or throw cushion, with about 50 feet of rope attached to it.

Should You Jump In The Water?

No other passenger should jump in after a person who's fallen overboard, as this puts another person at risk. In some cases, however, it may be necessary for someone else to go into the water. For example, if the victim is a child or appears to be injured. If someone needs to jump in to help, they should be wearing a life jacket and tethered to the boat.

How To Recover The Swimmer?

Once the victim has a hold of the line or flotation device, shift the boat out of gear and start pulling them in. Then, grab the victim under the arms as soon as possible, helping them out of the water and getting up the ladder. Make sure you are wearing a life jacket in case you also fall overboard while assisting, or need to go in the water to help.

We hope your day on the water goes smoothly. But if someone falls off the boat, you already know what to do. If you’re looking for a reliable boat at a price that will meet your budget, come to Tracy Motorsport. We are situated in Tracy, CA, and we also serve those from Stockton and Modesto. See you soon!