What should you do if someone falls overboard?

When someone falls overboard, the immediate and correct action is to turn the boat around to retrieve them. This response is crucial for several reasons. First, it ensures that the person in the water is not left struggling alone, which can lead to panic and exhaustion. By turning the vessel around, you can make a safe approach back to the individual, allowing for a successful rescue.

Turning the boat around also provides safety not just to the person who fell overboard, but to others on board as well. It allows the boat to maneuver into a position for an effective recovery while keeping a close eye on the person in the water, ensuring they are not lost or in danger of collision with other vessels.

It's also significant to note that throwing a life jacket and continuing to drive can be inadequate, as the person may not be able to grasp the jacket, leading to a risk of drowning. Similarly, continuing to the original destination neglects the urgent need to assist someone in distress. Splashing water to guide them is ineffective and could result in confusion or miscommunication about where to swim. Thus, turning the boat around is not only the most logical approach but also the safest, demonstrating responsible seamanship.