What should a person in water do before being rescued?

Keeping afloat and signaling with one arm raised is the best action for a person in the water before being rescued because it maximizes their chances of being seen and effectively communicates their location to rescuers. When a person raises one arm, it creates a clear and visible signal that can be easily spotted from a distance, particularly by rescue boats or aircraft.

Moreover, maintaining a position in the water while signaling helps conserve energy and ensures the person remains visible without exhausting themselves by swimming. This method is particularly effective in emergency situations where visibility may be limited, as it allows the individual to maintain a stable position while still being able to attract attention.

In contrast, swimming towards the nearest land can be risky, as it may lead to fatigue or disorientation, especially if the swimmer is not sure of the distance or if there are hazardous conditions along the way. Diving underwater can put the person out of sight, which could further delay rescue efforts. Flailing their arms could waste energy, lead to confusion, and might not provide a consistent signal that is easy for rescuers to interpret.