Drowning and submersion due to being thrown overboard by motion of merchant ship Save

Drowning and Submersion Due to Being Thrown Overboard by Motion of Merchant Ship

Accidents at sea are unfortunately common, and one of the most dangerous situations that can occur is when a person is thrown overboard due to the motion of a merchant ship. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including rough seas, high winds, or sudden movements of the ship. When this happens, the person thrown overboard can quickly become disoriented and may struggle to stay afloat, leading to drowning or submersion.

There are several factors that can contribute to the risk of drowning or submersion in these situations. One of the most critical is the speed and force of the ship's movement. When a person is thrown overboard, they can quickly be left behind by the moving ship, making it difficult to catch up. Additionally, the force of the ship's motion can make it challenging to swim or stay afloat, even for experienced swimmers.

Another critical factor is the person's ability to access life-saving equipment. In some cases, crew members or other passengers may be able to throw flotation devices or life rafts to the person in the water, which can help them stay afloat until they can be rescued. However, in other situations, this may not be possible, leaving the person in the water without any way to stay afloat or signal for help.

1. When a person is thrown overboard, it is essential to act quickly to increase their chances of survival. If you witness someone being thrown overboard, alert the crew immediately and try to keep the person in sight as long as possible.
2. If you are the person thrown overboard, try to stay calm and conserve your energy. Focus on staying afloat and keeping your head above water, and try to signal for help if possible.
3. If life-saving equipment is available, try to reach it as quickly as possible and use it to stay afloat. If not, try to grab onto any floating objects, such as debris or buoys, to help you stay above water.
4. Lastly, it is crucial to receive medical attention as soon as possible after being rescued. Even if you feel okay, drowning and submersion can cause serious internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent.

To prevent drowning and submersion due to being thrown overboard by the motion of a merchant ship, it is essential to prioritize safety and be prepared for emergencies. This can include having proper life-saving equipment on board, conducting regular safety drills, and ensuring that all passengers and crew members are aware of emergency procedures and best practices for staying safe at sea.

Ultimately, by taking these steps and being vigilant about safety, we can help reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that everyone on