Overboard Recovery


Procedures for retrieving a person who has fallen off a boat (e.g., the “figure 8” method, throwing a PFD); boater education emphasizes quick action and using a ladder or swim platform.

Related Terms

Propeller Guard

A protective cage or ring installed around a boat’s propeller to reduce the risk of prop strikes;...

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Hypothermia

A dangerous drop in body temperature from prolonged cold-water immersion; boater education covers...

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Sheer Pin or Prop Pin

A small, sacrificial metal pin designed to break if the propeller hits a hard object, protecting ...

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Safety Lanyard (Engine Cut-Off Switch)

A cord attaching the operator to a PWC or boat’s ignition, designed to stop the engine if the ope...

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Seaworthiness

A vessel’s overall fitness for intended waters, factoring in hull integrity, engine reliability, ...

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Float Plan App

A smartphone application allowing boaters to file and share float plans digitally with friends or...

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Flooded Boat Electrical Hazards

When water contacts electrical panels, risk of shock or equipment damage rises; boaters learn to ...

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Vessel Drift

Movement of a boat off course due to wind or current when power is reduced or off; important for ...

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Overboard Bag

A waterproof kit containing essential rescue tools (throwable PFD, flares, whistle, PLB) easily t...

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Carbon Monoxide Hazards

Deadly fumes produced by boat engines that can accumulate in or around a vessel, especially when ...

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Collision Avoidance

Strategies to prevent accidents, including early course changes, clear signals, and adherence to ...

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Maritime Theft Prevention

Locking hatches, removing keys, using boat alarms or GPS trackers; boater education promotes thes...

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Engine Out Situations

Emergency procedures when a boat’s engine fails, including dropping anchor, signaling for help, a...

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Docking Techniques

Methods and best practices for approaching and securing a boat to a dock or slip, including line ...

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Boat Safety Drill

A recommended practice session where all aboard learn how to handle man overboard, fire, or aband...

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Lightning Strike Procedures

Guidelines for storms: stay low in the boat, unplug electrical devices, and avoid touching metal....

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Propeller Strike Avoidance

Precautions to prevent injuries from a spinning propeller (e.g., turning off the engine when swim...

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Anchoring Techniques

Proper methods of securing a vessel in place using anchors and rodes, including scope calculation...

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PFD (Personal Flotation Device)

A life jacket or buoyant vest meeting U.S. Coast Guard standards; all states require an adequate ...

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Cold Water Shock

The initial gasp reflex and potential cardiac issues when suddenly immersed in cold water; separa...

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Capsized Kayak Recovery

Specific technique for re-righting a flipped kayak (e.g., the “Eskimo Roll” or a T-rescue). Boate...

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Filing a Float Plan

The practice of leaving trip details (departure time, route, expected return) with a friend or ma...

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Man Overboard

A situation where someone falls off the vessel into the water; boater education covers the correc...

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