What should you do if someone falls overboard?

When someone falls overboard, the priority is to ensure their safety and recovery as quickly as possible. Immediately turning the boat around allows the operator to return to the person in the water and provide assistance. Throwing a flotation device is critical because it offers the person something to grab onto while waiting for rescue, increasing their chances of staying afloat and calm until help arrives.

This immediate action prevents the individual from drifting away further and minimizes the risk of drowning or injury. It is essential to act swiftly since it can be difficult to pinpoint a person's exact location in the water, especially in busy or rough conditions. Although yelling for help might seem like a viable option, it does not provide the immediate support that the fallen individual needs. Additionally, expecting someone to swim back or ignoring the situation could potentially lead to dire consequences, making prompt retrieval the most responsible and effective course of action.