What should be done first when you receive an abandon ship order?

When you receive an abandon ship order, the first action you should take is to put on your life jacket. This is crucial because the life jacket will provide buoyancy and ensure your safety in the event that you have to enter the water. Having the life jacket on before proceeding to any other tasks increases your chances of survival, especially in a chaotic situation that might involve falling into the sea or encountering other dangers.

While gathering food supplies, making a distress call, and assessing the situation are important actions, they should not take precedence over securing your own safety. In a ship abandonment scenario, it’s essential to prioritize personal safety first, as you may not have the luxury of time to perform other tasks once you leave the ship. The life jacket is fundamental in preparing for water survival, which is why it is the first step to take following an abandon ship order.