Sailing is exhilarating, but sailors know the sport comes with risks and challenges. One of the scariest and challenging situations a sailboat captain can face is rescuing a passenger or crew member who falls overboard. Swift, confident, and effective action is imperative to prevent a minor boating accident from becoming life threatening.
Being prepared to respond to man-overboard situations (MOB) is critical to skippers, captains, and sailors. Below, we will walk you through the necessary steps to take when a person falls overboard, explore common reasons why it happens, and provide you with essential tips for preventing boaters from falling overboard in the first place.
Steps to Take When Someone Falls Overboard
When someone falls into the water, everyone on board must work together to get them out as quickly as possible. It doesn't take long for a person struggling in cold water to lose body heat and experience a drop in body temperature, increasing the risk of hypothermia and limiting their strength and coordination.
Below is a list of steps to follow when responding to a man overboard scenario to ensure a quick and coordinated rescue. Although the steps are sequential, they happen in rapid succession with different crew members performing them in tandem.
Shout “Man Overboard”
Immediately yell "Man Overboard,” a universally recognized maritime distress call, to alert your crew and other boats around you to the emergency. When everyone is aware, they can focus on a coordinated response and increase the chances of a successful rescue.
Activate MOB Button
If your sailboat has GPS and a MOB button, activate it immediately. This marks where the person fell overboard, making it easier to return to that location. If available, also activate the Automatic Identification System (AIS) distress signal to transmit the MOB’s position and alert nearby boat operators for assistance.
Throw a Personal Floatation Device (PFD) to the Person
Toss life rings, lifebuoys, cushions, or other life-saving flotation devices onboard to the person. You may need to throw more than one to ensure they can grab one. These will help keep the person calm and afloat, and give you something to hold to help pull them aboard.
Designate a Spotter
Designate a crew member as a spotter and have them maintain constant contact and communication with the person in the water. They should always keep the MOB in their sites, reassure them, and keep them posted about the rescue effort.
Execute a Crew Overboard Maneuver
There are many Crew Overboard Maneuvers designed for sailboats such as the Figure 8, the Quick Stop, the Anderson turn, etc. Each one has pros and cons but ultimately the best Crew Overboard Maneuver to use is the one you know best and have practiced the most.
At First Reef Sailing we teach the Figure 8 maneuver due to its ease, safety and ability to scale from small boats to large yachts. We practice the Figure 8 extensively throughout ASA 101, ASA 103 and ASA 104 on a variety of boats.
Once the boat is stopped near the person in the water it is critical to have a plan to bring them back aboard. You can have the person climb the boarding ladder, if able. You might deploy a dinghy to use as a stepping stone back into the boat. If the person is unconscious, you might have to even use a halyard to hoist them back aboard. A mayday call is appropriate if the person overboard is in immediate danger or the rescue is unsuccessful.
Render First Aid
Assess the person’s condition and administer first aid if necessary. Have them change out of their wet clothes, check for injury, rest, and drink some water as they recover their energy. Contact the U.S. Coast Guard in the case of life-threatening injuries.
Common Reasons People Fall Overboard On Sailboats
Many would-be sailors shy away from sailing for fear of falling overboard. Don’t let that stop your friends and family from joining you in your favorite sport. With proper instruction and an understanding of the reasons people fall overboard, you can welcome them aboard, hand them a life jacket, and help keep them high and dry.
Boat Capsizing
Unfortunately, your entire crew will end up in the water if your boat capsizes. Luckily, this can only happen on very small boats, called "Dinghy's". It is not possible to capsize a keelboat! You should focus entirely on safe boat handling and immediately alert the crew to the risk of capsizing. If you can access your VHF radio, request towing assistance.
Lack of Balance
Unexpected waves, sudden shifts in weight, improper movement, intoxication, and standing up too quickly can all lead to loss of balance and a fall overboard. Keep an eye on crew and passengers to assist as needed.
Rough Weather and Water Conditions
High winds, strong currents, and rough seas can make maintaining balance on the boat difficult. Refrain from taking inexperienced or nervous crew or passengers on any watercraft if you anticipate turbulent waters. Ensure passengers and crew keep a firm hold and do not stand too close to the edges.
Slippery Boat Deck
A slippery boat deck can lead to a MOB situation. To prevent falling, require proper footwear and use non-slip mats and non-slip deck paint for boats.
Unsecured Gear
Excess, loose, or improperly secured gear clutters the boat and can easily lead to trips and falls. Limit gear allowed on board and keep everything properly stowed.
How to Prevent People From Falling Overboard
Even the most experienced sailors risk falling overboard. The best way to stop someone on your boat from being injured from falling overboard is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some preventative measures:
Provide a safety briefing for your passengers and crew.
Encourage the use of safety harnesses and lifelines.
Check that all gear, equipment, and personal items are properly secured.
Monitor weather conditions and avoid sailing in situations that could pose a risk of falling overboard.
Limit alcohol intake.
Sailboat captains must react quickly when a person falls overboard to prevent an injury or fatality. By understanding the common reasons for MOB incidents and implementing preventative measures, you can enhance the safety of your passengers and crew while sailing the open waters.
Gain Confidence With ASA Certification Through First Reef Sailing
We help our students become safe, confident ASA-certified sailors. Sign up for our sailing classes and master the essential skills, including Man Overboard procedures.
We offer various beginner courses to help you get comfortable on the water. Start with our ASA 101 - Basic Keelboat course (no sailing experience required).
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