When you think of the dangers at sea, what comes to mind? Shark attacks? Rip tides? Sudden storms? While all of these are certainly dangerous, there is one danger that is often overlooked: people falling overboard. In this blog post, we will take a look at what causes people to fall overboard and how you can prevent it from happening to you or your loved ones.
What does it mean to fall overboard?
Most people have a general understanding of what it means to fall overboard: it simply means to fall off of a boat into the water. But there is more to it than that. Depending on the circumstances, falling overboard can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening.
For example, if you fall overboard while the boat is moving, you could be injured by the propeller or dragged under the water. If you’re in cold water, you could also quickly develop hypothermia.
Even if the boat is not moving, falling overboard can still be dangerous. If you are not wearing a life jacket, you could drown. And even if you are wearing a life jacket, you could still be at risk of being hit by the boat or getting tangled in the ropes.
So, if you’re planning to go boating this summer, make sure you take some safety precautions. Wear a life jacket and stay within reach of the boat at all times. And if you do happen to fall overboard, don’t panic – focus on swimming to the side of the boat or to shore. With a little bit of caution, you can avoid putting yourself in danger and enjoy a safe and fun day on the water.
What are the most common causes of someone falling overboard on a boat?
There are many potential causes of someone falling overboard on a boat, but some are more common than others. These include:
- Waves and turbulence
- Leaning over the edge
- Not paying attention
- Being inattentive
- Weather conditions
- Slippery surfaces
- Alcohol
- Trying to retrieve something from the water
Waves and turbulence
Waves and turbulence are the most common cause of someone falling overboard on a boat. The movement of the water can cause people to lose their balance and fall into the water. Waves can also swamp boats, causing them to capsize and people to be thrown into the water.
Leaning over the edge
Leaning over the edge of the boat is another common cause of someone falling overboard. People can lean over the edge to get a better view or to take pictures. They can also lean over the edge to retrieve something that has fallen into the water. If the boat is moving, it can be easy to lose your balance and fall in.
Not paying attention
Not paying attention is another common cause of someone falling overboard on a boat. People can get distracted by their surroundings, by other people on the boat, or by their own thoughts. If they are not paying attention to where they are and what they are doing, they can easily fall overboard.
Being inattentive
Being inattentive is also a common cause of someone falling overboard on a boat. People can be inattentive when they are tired, when they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or when they are simply not paying attention. If people are inattentive, they can easily fall overboard.
Weather conditions
Weather conditions can also play a factor in causing someone to fall overboard on a boat. Strong winds can cause waves and turbulence, which can make it difficult to stay on the boat. Heavy rains can also make the deck of the boat slippery, making it easy to lose your footing and fall overboard.
Slippery surfaces
Slippery surfaces are another common cause of someone falling overboard on a boat. The deck of the boat can be slippery when it is wet or when there is algae or other growth on it. People can also slip and fall overboard if they are wearing shoes that are not appropriate for the conditions.
Alcohol
Alcohol is also a common cause of someone falling overboard on a boat. People can drink too much and lose their balance, or they can try to stand up while the boat is moving and fall over.
Psychosis
A person with psychosis experiences a break from reality, which may manifest in difficulties distinguishing between what is real and not, as well as unusual or bizarre behaviors.
Although psychosis is relatively rare, it can be deadly if not treated quickly. This can lead to people with psychosis falling overboard from a ship, plane, or other vehicles.
Trying to retrieve something from the water
Trying to retrieve something from the water is also a common cause of someone falling overboard on a boat. People can drop something overboard and try to reach for it, or they can try to rescue someone who has already fallen in. Either way, if they are not careful, they can easily fall in themselves.
These are just some of the most common causes of someone falling overboard on a boat. With so many potential hazards, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to stay alert when you are on a boat.
Why would someone stand when the boat is moving?
While it would make sense that you shouldn’t stand while the boat is still moving, there are a few reasons why people choose to ignore this rule.
- Fishing
- Intoxication
- Recklessness/carelessness
Fishing
The average angler stands when fishing for two reasons: they can more easily move their rod and fight fish.
Wearing a certified PFD (personal fl life jacket) is essential when fishing, as you never know when somebody might fall overboard. You’ll often see professionals wearing automatic inflatable life jackets to be extra safe.
Intoxication
Many overboard falls are a result of intoxication, as it is well known that alcohol and drugs impair thinking and cause poor judgment. In fact, 40% of all overboard falls can be linked to alcohol consumption. When a boat is moving, an intoxicated person is more likely to stand than someone who is sober.
Recklessness/carelessness
Sometimes people just don’t think about the risks involved in standing up on a moving boat. Whether they’re too focused on the activity they’re doing or they simply don’t understand the potential consequences, these individuals are putting themselves and others in danger.
Wearing a life jacket and being aware of your surroundings are the best ways to prevent an overboard fall. And if you do find yourself in the water, stay calm and wait for help. With a little bit of caution, you can avoid becoming a statistic.
Ways to Prevent an Overboard Situation
By understanding the reasons people go overboard, we can easily put steps in place to prevent such accidents.
Surprisingly, though it’s more difficult to predict safety when the sea is rough, most accidents happen in calmer waters. This is often because people become complacent and don’t take the same care they would in rougher conditions.
Here are some tips to help prevent an overboard situation.
Wear a life jacket
Most people who go overboard are not wearing a life jacket. Wearing a life jacket is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent an overboard situation. Not only does a life jacket provide additional buoyancy in the water, but it also helps to keep the wearer’s head above water. In the event of an emergency, a life jacket can mean the difference between life and death.
There are many different types of life jackets available on the market, so it is important to choose one that is comfortable and appropriate for the activity you will be participating in. Wearing a life jacket is a small but important step in keeping yourself safe on the water.
Pay attention to the weather forecast
Before heading out on the water, it is important to check the weather forecast. This will give you an idea of what conditions to expect and help you to plan accordingly. If the forecast calls for strong winds or rough seas, it is best to stay ashore.
In addition to checking the weather forecast, it is also a good idea to keep an eye on the conditions while you are out on the water. If the weather begins to take a turn for the worse, it is best to head back to shore as soon as possible.
Be aware of your surroundings
When you are out on the water, it is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. This means keeping an eye on the other boats around you, as well as any obstacles in the water. If you are in a crowded area, it is important to give other boats plenty of space.
In addition to being aware of other boats, it is also important to be aware of your own boat. Familiarize yourself with all the safety equipment on board and know how to use it. In the event of an emergency, you will be glad you took the time to familiarize yourself with the safety equipment.
Never swim alone
Many people who go overboard are swimming alone at the time of the accident. While swimming alone may seem like a good way to relax, it is not worth the risk. If something were to happen, there would be no one around to help.
If you must swim alone, it is important to take precautions. First, make sure you are wearing a life jacket. Second, tell someone on shore where you are going and when you plan to return. Third, stay close to shore and within reach of a life preserver. By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of an accident.
Never stand up in a moving boat
Standing up in a moving boat is one of the most common ways people go overboard. The best way to avoid this is to never stand up in a moving boat. If you must stand up, make sure you are holding on to something secure.
Follow the Thumb Rule
The thumb rule is a simple but effective way to prevent an overboard situation. The rule states that you should never put your thumb between the boat and the dock when you are tying up the boat. If you do, your thumb could get caught and you could be pulled into the water.
The best way to avoid this is to always keep your thumb on the outside of the rope. This way, if the rope slips, your thumb will be pulled out of the way before it has a chance to get caught.
Stay Clear From the Edges While Drinking
Many people go overboard while they are drinking on a boat. The best way to avoid this is to stay clear of the edges while you are drinking. If you must drink near the edge, make sure you have a good grip on your drink and be careful not to spill it.
It is also important to never drink alcohol while operating a boat. Alcohol impairs your judgment and reaction time, making it more likely that you will have an accident.
Wear the Right Clothing
Wearing the right clothing is important for both comfort and safety. When you are out on the water, you will want to wear clothes that are loose and comfortable. Avoid wearing anything that is constricting or that could get caught on something.
In addition to being comfortable, your clothing should also be safe. When you are swimming, make sure you are wearing a life jacket. If you are boating, wear shoes that will protect your feet from the sun and from getting cut by the boat.
Avoid Emotional Conversations Near the Edge
Many arguments and fights happen on boats, often resulting in someone going overboard. To avoid this, it is best to avoid emotional conversations near the edge of the boat. If you are having a disagreement, move to the center of the boat where you will be less likely to fall overboard.
In addition to avoiding physical fights, it is also important to avoid verbal fights. Yelling and swearing can easily escalate into a physical altercation. If you are having a disagreement, try to keep your voice calm and level.
Being romantic on a boat can also lead to an overboard situation. If you are going to be intimate with someone on a boat, make sure you are in a safe area away from the edge.
Stay Inside During Rough Waters
Rough waters are one of the most common times for people to go overboard. To avoid this, it is best to stay inside the boat during rough waters. If you must be outside, make sure you are holding on to something secure.
It is also important to avoid drinking alcohol during rough waters. Alcohol will impair your judgment and make it more likely that you will fall overboard.
Avoid treacherous waters
Many boaters who don’t often encounter treacherous waters may think they can easily skirt around any obstacles in the water, but that’s not always the case. Even small waves on a river or lake’s surface can produce very dangerous currents.
By maintaining awareness of potential dangers and avoiding areas known to be treacherous, boaters can reduce the risk of falling overboard and ending up in a dangerous situation.
Be Careful When Getting Off the Boat
Many people go overboard while they are getting off the boat. To avoid this, be careful when you are getting off the boat. Make sure you are holding on to something secure and that your feet are firmly on the ground before letting go of the boat.
It is also important to be careful when you are getting on the boat. Many people slip and fall while they are trying to get on the boat. To avoid this, take your time and be careful when you are getting on the boat.
In conclusion, there are many ways to prevent an overboard situation. By following these simple tips, you can help prevent an overboard situation. Stay safe on the water this summer and enjoy your time on the water.
What are the consequences of falling overboard?
Most people who fall overboard will drown. This is especially true if they are not wearing a life jacket. Even if they are wearing a life jacket, cold water can cause hypothermia, which can lead to death.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, about 4,000 people die each year from drowning. This includes people who fall overboard as well as those who are swimming in the water and get pulled under by a current.
Of course, not all drownings are fatal. Some people are able to swim to safety or are rescued by someone nearby. But even non-fatal drownings can have lasting effects.
Drowning can lead to brain damage from a lack of oxygen. This can cause problems with memory, learning, and other cognitive functions. It can also lead to physical disabilities such as paralysis.
So, while falling overboard may not seem like a big deal, the consequences can be severe. If you are on a boat, make sure to wear a life jacket and stay away from the edge. And if you are swimming, be aware of your surroundings and do not go beyond your depth.
What to do immediately when someone falls overboard?
The sooner you act after someone falls overboard, the greater their chances are of being rescued. It’s crucial to discern whether they’ve fallen into cold or warm water.
Here are some important measures to follow:
Call for help
Notify the captain or crew immediately and have someone call for help on VHF Channel 16, the international distress channel.
Plot the location
Use GPS to find out and mark the location where the person went overboard.
Keep an eye on the person who has fallen overboard
After you raise the alarm, be sure to track the person who has fallen overboard or instruct others to do so. This step is crucial because if someone falls overboard, they will likely swim or be at the mercy of waves.
If someone falls into cold water, you’ll want to ensure they’re always aware and never lose consciousness. Knowing their position is of the utmost importance.
Throw them a lifebuoy
If the person is within range, throw them a lifebuoy with a line attached so they can hold on and you can pull them back in. If they are not close enough to be reached by the line, continue to track their position and call for help.
Do not jump in after them
Unless you are a trained professional, resist the urge to jump in after the person. It’s best to wait for help to arrive.
Turn back the boat / stop the boat
If the watercraft is moving quickly, you’ll likely need to turn around. Otherwise, stop the boat to rescue the person. For larger boats that can’t be turned easily, use a life raft or smaller boat to save the victim. This measure will prevent propeller injuries if a running boat gets too close to the victim.
Keep them warm
If the person is unconscious or unable to climb back into the boat, keep them warm with blankets or other materials. Hypothermia sets in quickly, especially in cold water, so it’s important to take measures to prevent further heat loss.
Try to bring the person back aboard
Once you’ve stopped the boat, there are a few ways to bring the person back on board. If they are wearing a life jacket, you can use a rescue line or ladder. For those not wearing life jackets, you’ll need to pull them out of the water using a rescuing device such as a swimming aid, ring buoy, or reaching the pole. If you’re unsuccessful in getting the person back on the boat, continue to monitor their position and call for help.
When someone falls overboard, it’s important to act quickly and decisively. Time is of the essence, and the sooner you take action, the greater the chances of rescue. Taking these steps immediately after someone falls overboard can mean the difference between life and death. In a matter of seconds, a person can go from being on board to being miles away from the safety of the vessel. By following these steps, you can help ensure a successful rescue and bring the person back to safety.
What measures to take when someone falls overboard in cold water?
If the water is cold (<70°F), their core body temperature will start to drop rapidly, and they’ll become hypothermic. In this case, you should:
- Immediately begin rescue procedures without delay – every second counts
- Notify the Coast Guard or other emergency services as soon as possible
- If you’re wearing a life jacket, remove it so you can swim more easily
- Try to keep the person afloat using whatever floatation devices are available
- Keep their head above water and point it in the direction of the shore, if possible
- If they’re not wearing a life jacket, create a makeshift one using whatever you can find
- If they’re unconscious, pull them toward you so they’re lying on their back and tow them to safety
These are just general guidelines – the best thing to do in any given situation is to use your best judgment.
What measures to take when someone falls overboard in warm water?
If the water is warm (>70°F), their core body temperature will only start to drop after 30 minutes or more. In this case, you should:
- Notify the Coast Guard or other emergency services as soon as possible
- If you’re wearing a life jacket, remove it so you can swim more easily
- Try to keep the person afloat using whatever floatation devices are available
- Keep their head above water and point it in the direction of the shore, if possible
- If they’re not wearing a life jacket, create a makeshift one using whatever you can find
- If they’re unconscious, pull them toward you so they’re lying on their back and tow them to safety
Remember, every second counts when someone falls overboard. By following these simple steps, you can help increase their chances of being rescued and surviving the ordeal.
What should I do if I fall overboard?
If you are the one who falls overboard, what should you do?
Stay calm and think positive
The first thing you need to do is stay calm and think positively. It may seem impossible at the moment, but it is essential to your survival. Remember that people have been known to survive for days or even weeks in cold water, so staying alive is definitely possible.
Positive thinking will help you stay calm and be better able to make decisions that could save your life.
Start swimming toward the boat
Once you have calmed down and are thinking clearly, your next step is to start swimming toward the boat. If you are wearing a life jacket, this will help keep you afloat and make it easier to swim. Swim with strong, even strokes and focus on getting back to the boat.
If you are not wearing a life jacket, do your best to stay afloat and swim toward the boat. Tread water if necessary to help keep your head above water.
Float instead of swimming if you’re far from the shore
When you are far from the shore and need to conserve your energy, float instead of swimming. It is easier to catch your breath and relax when you are floating, and you will save some much-needed energy in the process.
Before venturing out onto the water, be sure to know how to float. Additionally, you can float for over 29 hours if needs be, and withstand conditions such as dehydration, storms, and sea creatures while waiting to be rescued.
Call for help
Once you have made it back to the boat or shore, your next step is to call for help. If you are with others, have them call for help while you tend to any injuries.
If you are alone, call for help as soon as possible. Use your cell phone if you have one, or wave down any passing boats and signal for help.
Even if you are a strong swimmer, it is always best to err on the side of caution and call for help after falling overboard. It is better to be safe than sorry, and you will likely need assistance
Conclusion
You are more likely to fall out of a moving boat if you stand up. There may be several reasons why someone would want to stand while the boat is in motion, but it is not worth the risk.
Dangerous behavior is most often caused by intoxication or acting recklessly. Psychological problems can also play a role. To avoid accidents, like falling overboard, boaters should sit when the boat is moving. If you must stand up, make sure you have something to hold on to and proper footwear so you don’t slip. Additionally, it’s always best to steer clear of any risky behavior altogether.
If someone falls overboard, the best thing to do is raise the alarm and keep an eye on the victim. Throw them a life ring and then turn off the boat and rescue them. If you fall overboard yourself, stay calm and focus on floating rather than swimming as you wait to be rescued.
