What action should be taken if someone falls overboard?

If someone falls overboard, stopping the boat immediately and throwing them a rope is the most appropriate action to take. This approach prioritizes the safety of the person in the water by allowing them to grab onto a flotation device, which can support them while you assist. Stopping the boat also prevents further distance from being created between the vessel and the individual, making it easier for them to be rescued quickly.

Throwing a rope or other flotation device is essential; it provides buoyancy and aids retrieval. It is important to maintain visual contact with the person in the water and ensure they stay calm, which is easier when the boat is stationary. This response is crucial for avoiding complications and ensuring a swift rescue.

Other options may seem practical but can lead to increased danger. For instance, swimming to reach the person could put both the swimmer and the person overboard in jeopardy, as it may be challenging to reach them depending on water conditions. Additionally, failing to stop the boat can cause the vessel to drift away, making it harder to help effectively. Therefore, stopping the vessel and providing immediate assistance with a rope is the safest and most efficient method to address someone falling overboard.