Boating is an incredible way to enjoy the water, especially in sunny Florida, but accidents can happen in an instant. One of the most critical situations you may face as a captain is a passenger falling overboard. Being prepared and knowing what to do can make all the difference.
The Role of the Captain
As the captain of your boat, you are responsible for the safety of everyone onboard. This includes knowing how to handle emergencies like retrieving someone from the water. Make sure you are comfortable and practiced in the steps required to respond to a passenger falling overboard. Your immediate actions should be instinctive, as hesitation can lead to serious injuries or worse. It’s your duty to set the tone for safety and preparedness on your boat.
Steps to Take When a Passenger Falls Overboard
If a passenger falls overboard, the first step is to pull your engine cut-off switch immediately to stop the boat. This is the fastest and most important action to prevent the risk of injuries from the propeller. The second step is to throw a PFD (personal flotation device) to the person in the water to keep them afloat, treading water gets tiring fast!
Shout “Man Overboard!” loudly to alert everyone on the boat. Assign someone to keep their eyes on the person in the water at all times and point directly at them. This ensures they stay visible, even as the boat and person drift with the current. Your role as the captain is to focus on safely maneuvering the boat back to the person without losing sight of them.
How to Practice Man-Overboard Drills
Practicing overboard drills is crucial for building confidence and avoiding panic if the situation arises. A great way to practice is by using a floating object, such as an old hat. Have a passenger toss it into the water unexpectedly while you’re boating. React as quickly as possible by pulling the engine cut-off switch and throwing a PFD toward the object.
Approach the object slowly, paying attention to the direction of the current. Always approach into the current or downwind. Cut the engine once close enough and retrieve the hat. Practice this drill in various conditions, such as inshore waters and offshore to see the difference. Offshore is much more dangerous because of how vast the ocean truly is, Inshore can be dangerous with how busy it can be with everyone inshore fishing and tubing.
How to Pull Someone Back Onboard Safely
The method for bringing someone back onboard depends on their condition. If they are injured, immediately call for emergency assistance. If they are uninjured, ensure they have a PFD to help them stay afloat and calm. Throw them a line to stabilize them in the water before helping them climb back onboard using the boat’s ladder or swim platform.
If the person is unconscious or unable to assist themselves, you may need to lift them onboard manually. Be cautious and support their head and neck to prevent further injuries.
How to Prevent Overboard Accidents While Boating
Prevention is the best approach to avoid overboard accidents. Start by ensuring all passengers are seated or holding onto something secure during acceleration, choppy conditions, or when crossing wakes. Communicate clearly about upcoming conditions, such as rough water or sudden maneuvers, so passengers can prepare.
As the captain, it’s your responsibility to set clear safety rules on the boat. Prohibit standing on the swim platform when the engine is running, don’t let kids dangle their legs off the side, and go slower when boating with new passengers. Assign specific duties to your passengers, like having one person act as a lookout.
The Importance of a Throwable Personal Flotation Device
A throwable PFD is an essential safety tool and should always be easily accessible for fast deployment. Knowing its location and practicing with it during drills can make all the difference in an emergency. Treading water quickly tires a person, so providing immediate flotation support is critical. Familiarize yourself and your passengers with the throwable PFD on your boat to ensure everyone knows how to use it effectively.
Free Training Through Boat Clubs
If you’re new to boating or want to improve your skills, joining a boat club can be an excellent resource. Many clubs, like Freedom Boat Club, offer free training that includes basic operations, safety courses, and even on-the-water drills with licensed Coast Guard instructors. Learning to drive a boat sometimes can be stressful, use the quieter days on the water for your drills. Not all boat clubs are worth it so do your research well.
Final Thoughts
Boating is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend time with family and friends, especially during Florida’s hot summers. However, safety should always come first. Accidents often happen when people are unprepared or not paying attention. By taking a safety course, practicing man-overboard drills, and staying alert can make the day on the water much more relaxing.