The careful boatman would be wise to take a tip from experienced seagoing men who know the value of being prepared for emergencies. A person going boating in a large or a small craft should think out plans that he would follow in emergencies. In this way his actions will be automatic, fast, and correct.
One problem that should be thought out beforehand is a time when a man is overboard. If a man is overboard, swing the stern of the boat away from him. This action will reduce the propeller danger to the man overboard.
Throw a lifesaving device to him as soon as possible, even if he can swim. Care should be taken not to hit the man. Normally, a life ring is the best lifesaving device to use for this purpose because it can be thrown farther and is easier for the man in the water to use. Don't wait to get a life ring if there is another lifesaving device closer at hand. Speed may be most important.
Keep the man in view at all times. If you have another person in the boat with you, have him act as lookout. If it is night, direct the brightest light on the man in the water. The way that you approach a man in the water depends upon common sense and good judgment. Consider the temperature of the water, the sea conditions, the physical condition and ability of the man in the water, and whether or not you are alone in the boat.
If you have someone in the boat with you, it might be a good idea to have this person put on a life preserver with a line attached to the boat and get into the water to help the person who fell overboard.
Help the man in boarding the boat. It is often difficult to climb into a boat from the water. And if a man is hurt or cold he may not be able to pull himself in. In small boats the weight of man suspended from the side might be enough to tip the boat and cause it to take in water. The best place for coming aboard a small boat would be by way of the stern or bow. Common sense says that the propeller should be stopped when taking a man over the stern.
1. This article could have been titled
Sinking Ships.
Be Prepared.
Lifesaving Devices.
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