BOATsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Module 06 - Other Water Activities Emergency Preparation

STEP 1: Determine whether your passengers and your boat are in danger.

STEP 2: Immediately shift the motor to neutral.

STEP 3: Visually and/or verbally confirm that all of your passengers are present and accounted for.

STEP 4: Make sure every passenger is wearing a Coast Guard-approved lifejacket.

STEP 5: Determine if there are other boats in the area that can offer assistance.

STEP 6: Determine if there is any danger of being hit by other boat traffic.

STEP 7: Inspect the equipment and hull for any damage—look for accumulating water.

STEP 8: If the hull is undamaged, assess your next course of action:

Is it possible to safely dislodge the boat from the obstruction?
Is it necessary to lighten the boat by removing the equipment and passengers?
Is it safe for your passengers to help you push the boat off the obstruction?
Is it possible to use the reverse thrust of the engine to help free the boat from the obstruction?

Step 9: If necessary, signal your need for help using a recognized distress signal.