Man Overboard

In spite of the best preparation, sometimes accidents happen. Falling overboard is a common cause of on-water incidents and fatalities. Boat operators need to be prepared to handle unexpected situations such as a person overboard. Operators should know how to recover a “Man Overboard”. Recovery methods may include the use of Buoyant Heaving Lines, Lifebuoys, and/or devices for re-boarding the boat (don’t forget to turn off the engine).

Before you set out, everyone should know a procedure for recovering a “Man Overboard”, where to find the safety equipment, how to use it, to know what tasks have been assigned to each person on board, as well as know how movement of equipment and persons affects the operation of the boat. It is a good idea to practice rescue procedures so that all persons on board are familiar with the equipment needed and the steps to take in an emergency situation.