What should you do if someone falls overboard?

If someone falls overboard, the immediate and most important action to take is to stop the boat and assist the person back on board. Stopping the boat ensures that you do not inadvertently move further away from the person in the water, which could complicate rescue efforts and increase their risk of harm.

By halting the vessel, you also reduce the risk of collisions or accidents that could occur by continuing to move forward. Once the boat is stopped, you can effectively throw a rope or use other means to help the person back on board safely. This approach prioritizes their safety and allows for a direct response, rather than leaving them to struggle in the water.

Other options, although somewhat relevant, do not prioritize the immediate safety of the individual who has fallen overboard. For instance, throwing a rope while continuing to move could endanger the person further. Sounding a horn may alert others, but it does not assist the person directly and could lead to delays in providing necessary help. Calling for help and waiting also neglects the immediate response that could be given, as every second counts when someone is in the water.