How to respond to crew overboard
A Man Overboard (MOB) drill is a crucial safety procedure that every boater should practice regularly. It simulates a real MOB situation, allowing the crew to practice their response and increase the chances of a successful rescue.
Preparation and Briefing:
- Assign Roles: Clearly define roles for each crew member:
- Spotter: Maintains constant visual contact with the MOB. This is the most critical role.
- Helmsman: Steers the vessel.
- Thrower: Deploys flotation devices and other equipment.
- Recovery Team: Prepares for the recovery itself, including readying lines, ladders, or other equipment.
- Equipment Check: Ensure all necessary equipment is readily available and in good working order:
- Life rings or other flotation devices
- Whistle or horn
- First aid kit
- VHF radio
- GPS (and know how to mark a waypoint quickly)
- Boat hook, life sling, or other recovery gear (if available)
How to respond to crew overboard under sail
Responding to a crew overboard (COB) under sail requires immediate and decisive action. Here’s a step-by-step guide to handling the situation efficiently:
1. Immediate Actions
- Shout “Crew Overboard!” to alert the crew.
- Throw flotation devices (life ring, throwable PFD, or anything that floats).
- Assign a spotter to keep eyes on the person in the water and continuously point at them.
2. Maneuvering the Boat
Depending on wind conditions and boat type, you have a few recovery methods:
Quick Stop (Best for Immediate Recovery)
- Head up into the wind to slow the boat.
- Release sheets to depower sails but don’t tack.
- Turn back toward the COB while keeping them in sight.
- Use a controlled approach under reduced sail power.
Figure-8 Maneuver
- Sail about 2–3 boat lengths past the COB, then tack.
- Circle back on a reach-to-reach course.
- Approach the COB on a close reach, slowing down for recovery.
Quick Turn (Heave-to Recovery)
- Tack immediately (without releasing the jib), stopping the boat.
- Drift downwind towards the COB, keeping them in sight.
- Adjust as needed for a controlled recovery.
3. Recovering the Person
- Approach from downwind so the boat drifts toward the COB.
- Use a line or life sling if they’re too far to reach.
- Bring them aboard using a swim ladder, transom, or halyard if needed.
4. After Recovery
- Check for injuries or hypothermia.
- Administer first aid as necessary.
- Notify emergency services if needed.
(See the Safe Skipper app for more safety tips)
How to respond to crew overboard under power
1. Immediate Actions
- Shout “Crew Overboard!” to alert the crew.
- Throw flotation devices (life ring, throwable PFD, or anything that floats).
- Assign a spotter to keep constant visual contact and point at the person in the water.
- Hit the MOB button on GPS (if available) to mark the location.
2. Maneuvering the Boat
Your goal is to return safely while avoiding propeller danger.
Williamson Turn (Best for Low Visibility or Night)
- Turn 60° to port or starboard.
- Then turn hard in the opposite direction to make a figure-eight loop.
- Line up for a slow approach toward the COB.
Anderson Turn (Quickest for Immediate Recovery)
- Hard turn toward the COB.
- Make a tight circle to return quickly.
- Reduce speed as you approach.
Straight-Line Stop (For Calm Conditions and Immediate Rescue)
- Pull throttle to idle to stop forward momentum.
- Turn toward the COB and drift closer.
- Use a slow, controlled approach.
3. Recovering the Person
- Approach from downwind, stopping the boat slightly upwind of the COB.
- Turn off the engine or keep it in neutral before bringing them alongside.
- Use a life sling, swim platform, or boarding ladder for retrieval.
- If unconscious, use multiple crew members to hoist them aboard.
4. After Recovery
- Check for injuries or hypothermia.
- Administer first aid as necessary.
- Call for emergency medical assistance if needed.
Would you like me to tailor this for specific vessel types or sea conditions?
(See the Safe Skipper app for more safety tips)
