If your boat is sinking, what should you do first?

When a boat is sinking, signaling for help is the most critical and immediate action to take. This ensures that you are able to communicate your situation to others who can assist you, such as nearby boaters or emergency services. Promptly alerting others increases your chances of rescue and provides a way to get additional assistance before the situation worsens.

Taking actions such as checking for leaks or attempting to fix the motor may delay important safety measures and put you at greater risk. Similarly, jumping into the water may expose you to various dangers, including hypothermia, drowning, or separating you from your boat and potential rescue. Therefore, signaling for help prioritizes your immediate safety and the likelihood of successful rescue.