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Emergency Reference

PERSON OVERBOARD

Technical visualPerson overboard response sequence
Person overboard response sequenceA conceptual person-overboard response: raise the alarm, keep the person in sight and throw flotation, mark the position, then return under control and shut down propulsion before the person enters the propeller danger area or is brought alongside.vesselPERSON IN WATERFLOAT1ALARM2SIGHT + FLOAT3MARK4RETURNUNDER CONTROL
Person overboard response sequenceA conceptual person-overboard response: raise the alarm, keep the person in sight and throw flotation, mark the position, then return under control and shut down propulsion before the person enters the propeller danger area or is brought alongside.1ALARM2SIGHT + FLOAT3MARK POSITION4RETURN UNDER CONTROL

Throw flotation

Keep the person continuously in sight

Shut down propulsion before the person reaches the propeller area

Concept sequence only. Vessel type and conditions determine the recovery maneuver; this diagram does not prescribe a universal turn.

These are immediate reference cards, not substitutes for vessel-specific emergency procedures, qualified training or instructions from rescuers.

Shout "PERSON OVERBOARD."

Keep the person in sight. Assign someone to point continuously if crew are available.

Throw immediately available flotation.

Mark the position on the plotter/MOB function if fitted.

Maneuver back under control.

Approach so the vessel does not endanger the person with propeller, hull or uncontrolled momentum.

Stop the boat and shut down propulsion before the person enters the propeller danger area or is brought alongside. Do not rely on neutral; a propeller may continue to spin.

Recover using the safest available boarding or lifting method.

Call for assistance if recovery is delayed, conditions are dangerous or the casualty is injured.

Treat cold-water exposure seriously.

Do not prescribe one universal MOB turn. Sailboats, planing boats, jet drives, single-engine boats, twins and larger yachts require different handling.

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