What should you do if a person falls overboard?

If a person falls overboard, the appropriate response is to throw them a life jacket and guide them back. This action is crucial because it provides immediate flotation assistance to the person in the water, helping to keep them safe and buoyant while you maneuver the boat to assist them further.

Throwing a life jacket ensures that they have something to hold onto, especially if they are struggling or panicking in the water. Additionally, giving them direction and guidance aids in their ability to return to the boat safely. It's important to remain calm and reassure them, as panic can make the situation more dangerous for both the individual in the water and the rescuer.

In contrast, speeding up to rescue them can create dangerous waves and may accidentally put the person at risk of being hit by the boat, while ignoring them altogether could lead to dire consequences if they are unable to swim back unaided. Calling for help may be necessary in some scenarios, but the immediate first step should always prioritize providing flotation and guidance.