If a boat capsizes, what is the best course of action?

Staying with the boat and signaling for help is the best course of action if a boat capsizes because it significantly increases the chances of survival. A capsized boat provides buoyancy and can serve as a floating platform while waiting for rescue. Additionally, it makes the individual more visible to rescuers, who are more likely to find a boat than a person swimming in open water.

Swimming to shore immediately might seem like a viable option, but it can be dangerous, especially if the shore is far away or if the swimmer is not a strong swimmer. In open waters, currents and tides can quickly make it difficult to reach the shore safely.

Trying to flip the boat back over may not always be feasible and could also put the person in danger, especially if conditions are rough.

Abandoning the boat without notifying anyone is not advisable because it makes it harder for rescuers to locate the individual. Staying with the capsized boat is generally a safer and more strategic approach while signaling for help to increase the likelihood of a timely rescue.