Abandon Ship Procedure for Boats: Steps, Gear and Safety
When to abandon ship, how to call for help, how to launch and board a liferaft safely, and the US federal gear rules for recreational boaters.
Master the rules, master the water.
7 articles
Onboard Safety & Emergency Procedures
When to abandon ship, how to call for help, how to launch and board a liferaft safely, and the US federal gear rules for recreational boaters.
Learn the capsized boat recovery procedure: when to stay with the hull, how to signal for help, survive cold water, and right a small sailboat safely.
Learn man overboard recovery techniques: first actions, Anderson and Williamson turns, safe approach, US required equipment and engine cut-off rules.
Learn the marine radio distress call format: MAYDAY, PAN-PAN, SECURITE, Channel 16 steps, DSC alerts, power limits and false-call penalties in the US.
Vessel distress signals and their meanings for US boaters: Mayday, Pan-Pan, flares, orange flag, EPIRB, and which devices the law requires you to carry.
Learn the VHF channel 16 protocol for US boaters: when to call, how to make a Mayday, what to avoid, and how to keep Channel 16 clear for emergencies.
What to do if someone falls overboard: raise the alarm, keep them in sight, approach under control, avoid jumping in, and call 9-1-1 or VHF 16.