When entering the water after abandoning ship, what should you consider first?

Considering water temperature first when entering the water after abandoning ship is crucial for survival. The temperature of the water can significantly affect your body's response and ability to survive in such conditions. Cold water can lead to hypothermia much more quickly than warmer water, drastically impairing your ability to swim or stay afloat. Knowing the temperature helps you decide how to react, such as whether to try to swim to safety or to conserve energy by staying still and floating.

While clarity of the water, presence of fish, and depth are important factors as well, they do not impact your immediate survival and physiological response as directly as the water temperature does. In an emergency situation, being aware of how long you can be in the water before suffering from hypothermia is essential to making informed decisions about your next steps.