The first seconds
- Shout “man overboard” so the whole crew knows.
- Throw something that floats: a lifebuoy, danbuoy or throwing line, as close to the person as you can.
- Press the MOB button on the plotter or DSC radio to mark the position.
- Put one person on pointing at the casualty, and nothing else. Once you lose sight of someone in the water, they're very hard to find again.
Getting back to them
There are several recognised ways to return to a casualty under sail or power, and the right one depends on the boat, the conditions and the crew you have. Whichever you use:
- Keep the turn tight so you don't sail away from the person.
- Check for lines over the side before using the engine, so you don't foul the propeller.
- Approach slowly, so you can stop alongside them without overrunning.
- Never put the propeller near someone in the water: stop it or take it out of gear as you arrive.
Practise the method taught on your course, with your own boat, until the crew can do it without thinking.
Getting them aboard
This is often the hardest part, especially if the person is heavy, cold, injured or unconscious, and the boat has a high freeboard. Plan it before you need it:
- Know what recovery gear you carry, such as a recovery sling, a ladder or a halyard and winch, and how to rig it.
- Get a line on the casualty straight away, so they can't drift off while you set up.
- Lift them horizontally if you can, especially after a long time in cold water.
Calling for help
Send a DSC distress alert and a Mayday as soon as you can if you can't recover the person quickly, if you lose sight of them, or if they're injured or in cold water. A man overboard is grave and imminent danger, and the Coastguard would always rather be called early. See how to send a Mayday.
Prevention
- Lifejackets on deck, and harnesses clipped on at night and in rough weather.
- Jacklines rigged before you leave, so crew can stay clipped on along the deck.
- One hand for yourself and one for the boat.