On a small boat, if someone fell overboard and you did not know over which side the person fell, you should ______?

• A. Stop the propellers from turning and throw a ring buoy over the side
• B. Call for help immediately
• C. Start engine and search
• D. Shout for help and pause

Answer: (A)

When someone falls overboard, the immediate priority is to remove the danger and keep the person afloat. Stopping the propellers eliminates the risk of being struck by the blades or the boat running over the person, which is the fastest way to prevent a serious injury or worse. Throwing a ring buoy over the side gives the person something to hold onto and helps keep them buoyant while you locate them, especially since you don’t know which side they fell from. This combination buys you time to maneuver toward the person and begin a proper recovery. Calling for help is important, but it should come after you’ve secured the boat and provided flotation. Starting the engine or just shouting for help doesn’t address the immediate danger or assist the person in the water as effectively.