What should you do if someone falls overboard while onboard a vessel?

In the event that someone falls overboard, the immediate priority is to ensure their safety. Alerting the captain and throwing a flotation device is crucial because it provides instant assistance to the person in the water. The flotation device can help keep the individual afloat and increase their chances of returning safely to the vessel, while notifying the captain ensures that appropriate actions can be taken to maneuver the boat back to the person and potentially initiate a rescue operation.

This approach is particularly important since the captain is trained to handle such emergencies and can make quick decisions about navigation and rescue strategy. Other options, such as trying to swim after the person or continuing navigation without action, may put both the individual in the water and the crew at greater risk, making the situation more dangerous. Dropping anchor and waiting is not advisable either, as it could delay crucial response time. Immediate action combined with effective communication is key to ensuring safety in such scenarios.