When a person falls overboard, it’s one of the most urgent emergencies on a boat, and quick, decisive action can be the difference between life and death. The key to a successful Man Overboard (MOB) recovery is staying calm and following a clear set of steps that ensure the safety of both the person in the water and the crew onboard. Below is a detailed guide outlining the essential actions to take when dealing with an MOB situation.
| MayDayMarine: Steps to Take in a Man Overboard (MOB) Situation | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Step | What to Do | Why It’s Important | Additional Tips |
| 1. Shout “Man Overboard!” | Immediately alert the entire crew by shouting “Man Overboard!” This ensures everyone is aware of the emergency. | Immediate communication alerts everyone to the situation, allowing them to prepare for recovery efforts without delay. | Assign someone to point at the person overboard and keep them in sight at all times. |
| 2. Throw a Floatation Device | Toss a life buoy, life ring, or any floatation device to the person in the water. | This provides immediate buoyancy and keeps the person afloat, reducing their chances of drowning. | If possible, throw a device with a light or a line to make recovery easier. |
| 3. Press the MOB Button on the GPS | Activate the MOB function on your GPS or chartplotter to mark the exact location where the person fell overboard. | Marking the location ensures you can navigate back to the exact spot if needed, especially if the person is difficult to spot in the water. | If the boat lacks a GPS, throw a floating marker to mark the spot. |
| 4. Slow Down and Turn the Boat | Immediately slow down the boat and begin turning it toward the person in the water, maintaining visual contact. | Slowing down reduces the chance of injuring the person in the water with the boat or propellers, while turning positions the boat for recovery. | Approach the person from downwind or down-current to make recovery easier and safer. |
| 5. Assign Lookouts | Have one or more crew members act as lookouts, continuously pointing at the person in the water. | This ensures that the person in the water remains visible at all times, reducing the chances of losing sight of them in rough conditions. | Switch lookouts if someone becomes tired, ensuring constant focus on the person in the water. |
| 6. Maneuver for Recovery | Once the boat is close, use a lifeline or a boat hook to retrieve the person. Ensure the engine is in neutral before they are pulled aboard. | Proper recovery technique ensures the person is safely brought back aboard without risking injury from the propellers or boat movement. | In rough seas, consider deploying a rescue sling or harness for added safety. |
| 7. Provide First Aid | Once the person is aboard, assess their condition and provide first aid as needed. Ensure they are dry and warm to prevent hypothermia. | Immediate first aid can prevent further medical complications, especially if the person was in the water for an extended period. | Even if they seem fine, monitor them closely for shock, hypothermia, or other delayed symptoms. |
| 8. Call for Help if Necessary | If the person is injured or unresponsive, call the nearest emergency services or Coast Guard for assistance. | Professional medical help may be necessary if the person is unconscious, severely injured, or in shock. | Use the boat’s radio or satellite communication device to call for help. Provide accurate coordinates from the GPS. |
