In a man-overboard situation, what is the first step you should take?

In a man-overboard situation, the first step that should be taken is to raise the alarm and mark the position. This is crucial because alerting the crew and other vessels in the area expedites the response needed to locate and rescue the person who has fallen overboard. Marking the position provides precise coordinates that can be used for search and rescue efforts, which significantly increases the chances of a successful recovery.

Taking immediate action to raise the alarm ensures everyone on board is aware of the emergency situation and can contribute to the response, whether by preparing rescue equipment, keeping a lookout for the person in the water, or organizing a retrieval plan. Additionally, having an accurate position allows for a more strategic approach to searching, rather than relying on memory or assumptions about where the person went overboard.

Jumping in after the person or starting the search immediately without first raising the alarm may distract from the overall rescue effort and can put the rescuer in danger if they are not equipped or trained to handle such a situation effectively. Calling for help on the radio without marking the position can also lead to delays, as coordinates are essential for guiding rescuers to the scene quickly.