What should be done if a vessel capsizes?

When a vessel capsizes, the safest and most effective action to take is to remain with the boat if possible and signal for help. Staying with the capsized vessel increases the chances of being found by rescuers because a boat is much more visible than an individual in the water. It also provides some buoyancy and shelter, which can be crucial in difficult conditions.

In many cases, other boats or rescue teams will be searching for anyone who might be in distress, and a capsized boat serves as a clear marker of where a potential emergency is occurring. Signaling for help from a stable position can draw attention more effectively than swimming away.

Swimming to shore might seem like a viable option; however, the distance can often be misleading, and the dangers of swimming in open water, like currents and fatigue, can present serious risks. Similarly, trying to flip the boat back over can be very difficult, especially for individuals who may not have the strength or knowledge to do it safely. Lastly, staying trapped underneath the boat is extremely dangerous and can lead to suffocation or drowning. Thus, remaining with the vessel while signaling is the best course of action in capsize situations.