Drowning and submersion due to being washed overboard from watercraft Save

Drowning and Submersion Due to Being Washed Overboard from Watercraft

Drowning is a serious risk for anyone who spends time on or near the water. One of the most common causes of drowning is being washed overboard from a watercraft. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including rough seas, high winds, or operator error. It is important to understand the risks associated with being washed overboard and to take steps to prevent it from happening.

If you are going to be on a watercraft, it is important to wear a life jacket at all times. Even if you are a strong swimmer, you can become disoriented or injured if you are thrown into the water. A life jacket can help keep you afloat and increase your chances of survival until help arrives.

1. Stay Alert

When you are on a watercraft, it is important to stay alert at all times. Keep an eye on the weather and be aware of any changes in the conditions. If the water becomes rough or the wind picks up, take precautions to prevent being washed overboard.

2. Secure Yourself

When you are on a watercraft, make sure that you are secured to the boat at all times. This can be done by wearing a safety harness or by using a tether. If you do become washed overboard, these safety measures can help keep you connected to the boat and increase your chances of being rescued.

3. Be Prepared

Before you set out on a watercraft, make sure that you are prepared for the conditions that you may encounter. This means having the appropriate safety equipment on board, such as life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit. It also means having a plan in place for what to do if someone is washed overboard.

4. Take Action

If someone is washed overboard, it is important to take immediate action. This may include throwing a flotation device to the person, maneuvering the boat to retrieve them, or calling for help. Time is of the essence when someone is in the water, so it is important to act quickly and decisively.

Being washed overboard from a watercraft is a serious risk, but it is one that can be mitigated with the right precautions. By staying alert, securing yourself to the boat, being prepared, and taking action if someone is washed overboard, you can help prevent drowning and submersion. Remember to always wear a life jacket and to take the necessary safety measures when you are on or near the water.