What should be your first step after hitting the water?

The recommended first step after hitting the water is to keep your head above water. This action is crucial as it helps ensure that you can breathe and maintain your physical and mental well-being. When you are in water, especially in an emergency or survival situation, your immediate priority should be to avoid drowning. Keeping your head above water allows you to assess your surroundings, evaluate your situation, and think about potential next steps without the immediate threat of submersion.

Remaining afloat and breathing is essential because it provides you with the time needed to make a plan. Once you have stabilized yourself by ensuring you can breathe, you can then consider options such as swimming to safety, signaling for help, or finding something to hold onto if available. The emphasis on flotation and breath control in survival situations underlines the importance of survival techniques taught in STCW training.