A person falling into the water is one of the most critical emergency situations in navigation. Every year, numerous fatal accidents occur at sea, often because the crew did not react quickly or appropriately enough. A man overboard can quickly disappear from sight, especially in poor visibility or rough seas, and the consequences of prolonged immersion in cold water can be dramatic in just a few minutes. Knowing how to react methodically and quickly makes all the difference between a successful rescue and a tragedy. This situation requires rigorous preparation, a perfect knowledge of adapted maneuvers and appropriate safety equipment. Whether sailing with a crew or alone, on a sailboat or motor boat, every boater must master good reflexes and recovery techniques. In this article, we will examine in detail all the crucial steps to respond effectively to a man at sea, from immediate alert to first aid actions, including the various recovery maneuvers and the necessary preventive measures.
What is a man overboard (MOB)?
Definition and risk situations
The term “man overboard”, often referred to by the English acronym MOB (Man Overboard), describes the emergency situation where a person falls or goes overboard a sailing ship. This situation can occur in a wide variety of circumstances and concerns experienced boaters as well as beginners. The most common causes include a loss of balance when moving on deck in rough seas, a misstep during sail maneuvers, a slip on a wet deck, or even a shock against equipment following a sudden movement of the boat. Particularly risky moments are sail changes, anchoring or docking maneuvers, movements to the front of the boat, and of course any navigation in bad weather. The danger is greatly amplified at night due to reduced visibility. People sailing alone are also in a particularly vulnerable situation, as no one can immediately alert or perform rescue maneuvers.
Why every second counts
Time plays an absolutely crucial role in rescuing a person who has fallen into the water. Several factors make every second decisive for the survival of the castaway. First, the distance between the boat and the person increases very rapidly, especially if the ship continues to wander or if wind and current push the victim away. In just a few minutes, a person can become invisible from the boat, especially if the sea is formed with waves exceeding one meter. Second, hypothermia is a mortal danger even in relatively temperate waters. In fifteen-degree water, a person can lose consciousness in less than thirty minutes and succumb in less than two hours. In the cold waters of the Atlantic or the English Channel, this delay can be reduced to a few minutes. Third, the initial heat shock caused by the sudden immersion can lead to uncontrollable hyperventilation and cardiac disorders, even in healthy people. Finally, panic, physical exhaustion due to efforts to stay afloat, and the ingestion of salt water rapidly worsen the situation. That is why the responsiveness of the crew in the first few seconds directly determines the chances of survival.
Immediate reflexes in case of a man overboard
Give the alert on board
Scream “Man in the sea”
The first instinct when you notice that a person has gone overboard is to give the voice alert immediately by shouting “Man overboard! ” in the strongest and clearest way possible. This alert should be repeated several times to ensure that all crew members, no matter where they are on the boat, are notified. Never assume that someone else has already raised the alarm or wait to see if the situation resolves itself. Even if you are alone on board and apparently no one can hear you, shout anyway because nearby boats could hear your distress call. This vocalization also has an important psychological effect by forcing you to become aware of the seriousness of the situation and to go into emergency mode. In some cases, the fallen crew member may still be within earshot and your cry will help keep them hopeful and locate you. The voice alert must be followed immediately by the activation of all alarm systems available on board to mobilize the entire crew.
Appoint a permanent watchman
Immediately after giving the voice alert, it is absolutely essential to designate a crew member as a permanent watchman whose sole mission will be to keep the person in the water in their field of vision without interruption. This watchman must continuously point his outstretched arm at the victim, creating a permanent line of sight that other crew members can follow. This task may seem simple, but it requires total concentration because losing sight of the person for even a few seconds can make their subsequent location extremely difficult, if not impossible, especially in rough seas where waves regularly mask the castaway's head. The watchman must not participate in any other maneuver and must remain in a stable position on the boat, ideally slightly elevated to have the best possible visibility. It constantly communicates the relative position of the victim to the helmsman using appropriate nautical terms, for example by indicating the angle to the axis of the boat. If several people are available, it may be a good idea to have two watchmen to ensure redundancy, as visual fatigue sets in quickly during this intensive surveillance.
Mark the MOB position
MOB button on the GPS/tracker
Modern electronic navigation systems provide an absolutely essential function to instantly mark the exact position where a person has fallen into the water. The MOB button, found on virtually all recent GPS and navigation trackers, should be activated immediately after the voice alert. By pressing this dedicated button, which is usually red and easily accessible, the device records the precise geographic coordinates of the drop point and automatically activates several assistance functions. The system then displays the distance and bearing to this reference point, calculates an optimized return route, and often triggers a visual and audible alarm to keep the crew on alert. This function is particularly crucial in case of poor visibility, at night, or if the person temporarily disappears from sight behind the waves. Connected systems such as the Oria Marine IoT box even make it possible to automatically send an alert to the emergency services with exact coordinates, providing a valuable additional layer of security. It is important that all crew members know how to locate and use this MOB button without hesitation, as the seconds spent looking for how to activate it can be fatal.
Visual cues and alignments
Beyond electronic aids, traditional visual cues are a proven and reliable method of navigation that does not depend on any electrical power or technical system that could break down. As soon as possible after the fall, an experienced crew member should take visual alignments to mark the castaway's position in relation to fixed landmarks located on the coast or offshore. This ancient technique consists in identifying two distinct terrestrial objects, for example a bell tower and a water tower, which form a straight line through the position of the person in the water. By quickly memorizing or noting these cross-alignments, you create an accurate visual reference that can help you find the area even if you temporarily lose eye contact with the victim. This method obviously works best when you're sailing within sight of the coast, but even out at sea, you can use items like other ships, buoys, or offshore installations as temporary references. The advantage of this approach is that it works even if all of your electronic equipment breaks down and is a great backup of GPS data.
Launch flotation equipment
Crown buoy, horseshoe
The immediate launch of flotation equipment at the person who has fallen into the water is a fundamental lifesaving action that can make the difference between life and death. The crown buoy or horseshoe buoy, which should be stored in an easily accessible place on the bridge and not locked in a trunk, should be thrown as quickly as possible in the direction of the victim. The aim is to provide the castaway with floating support that allows him to save his energy rather than struggling to keep his head above the water, which accelerates exhaustion and hypothermia. Ideally, you should launch the buoy lightly into the person's wind so that the person drifts naturally toward them rather than away from them. Do not aim directly at the victim's head as an impact could injure or stun the victim. If the distance is important or the wind is strong, feel free to launch several buoys to increase the chances that the person can catch one. These buoys should be equipped with a floating line of at least thirty meters attached to the boat, which maintains a physical link with the victim and considerably facilitates their subsequent recovery.
Turning light, IOR pole
To complete the tracking system and drastically increase the chances of locating the person who has fallen into the water, particularly in the event of reduced visibility or at night, the launch of an automatic reversal fire is an absolutely essential safety equipment. This light device, which is activated automatically upon contact with water thanks to a turning system, emits a flashing light visible several kilometers away for several hours. The IOR pole represents an even more complete and effective system, combining several security elements into a single integrated device. This telescopic pole, which automatically deploys when thrown into the water, has a brightly colored flag at its top for visibility during the day, a flashing light at night, and often a radar reflective device that allows radar-equipped emergency services to locate the castaway's position. The pole also keeps a lifebuoy flush with the water thanks to a ballast, creating a very effective visual target even in rough seas. This equipment must be installed in an instantly accessible bridge rack, ready to be dropped in a fraction of a second without complex handling.
Maneuver the boat to pick up the person
Reduce speed and secure the area
Once the alert is given and the rescue equipment is launched, the next priority is to manage the boat's speed correctly and to secure the evolution zone to avoid worsening the situation. The instinctive reaction of many helmsmen is to immediately turn around at full speed, but this hasty approach can prove to be dangerously counterproductive. It is first necessary to gradually reduce the speed to better control the boat and avoid getting too far away from the victim, while maintaining enough freedom to maintain the maneuverability necessary for return maneuvers. On a sailboat, this means lowering the headsails quickly and shocking the mainsail or also lowering the mainsail depending on the conditions, while on a motor boat, you have to reduce the gases gradually. It is absolutely crucial to never reverse until you have absolute confidence that the person in the water is far from the propeller, as propeller injuries represent an additional fatal risk during recovery operations. Clearly establish the roles of everyone on board to avoid confusion in the action, and make sure all other crew members wear their life jackets as the hustle and bustle of maneuvering could lead to further falls.
Choosing the right maneuver for the situation
Choosing the appropriate recovery maneuver depends on multiple factors that need to be assessed quickly but carefully. Weather conditions play a decisive role, as effective maneuvering in calm weather can become impractical in heavy weather or strong winds. The type of boat also considerably influences which maneuver to choose, as a sailboat and a motor boat do not react at all in the same way. The configuration of the crew is another critical factor, since a maneuver requiring several people becomes impossible alone or with a small crew. The distance to the victim also determines your approach, as maneuvers differ depending on whether the person is still close or has already drifted several hundred meters away. The condition of the victim observable from the boat is also an important element of assessment, as a person who is conscious and able to swim requires a different approach than a person who is inanimate or in difficulty. Finally, your own level of experience and that of your crew should guide you towards maneuvers that you really master rather than to techniques that are theoretically optimal but that you have never practiced.
The eight-way maneuver (Anderson)
The eight-way maneuver, also called Anderson maneuver, is a classic technique for approaching a castaway that is particularly suitable for motor boats and sailboats in low to moderate winds. This maneuver takes its name from the eight-shaped trajectory that the boat describes to return to the person who has fallen into the water. The principle consists in making a sharp turn to starboard or port immediately after the fall, depending on the direction of the fall, describing a large circle that brings you approximately back to the initial position of the castaway. As soon as you have completed about two hundred seventy degrees of rotation and you see the victim in front of you, you make a second turn in the opposite direction to position yourself in front of the wind and waves, which makes it possible to stop the boat precisely at the level of the person in the water. The major advantage of this maneuver lies in the fact that it keeps the victim constantly on the starboard or port side of the boat throughout the evolution, thus facilitating constant monitoring. In addition, the final approach in the face of wind and swell allows better control of the stopping of the boat and generally places the person on the leeward side, protected by the hull. However, this technique requires a certain amount of maneuvering space and works best with a crew large enough to simultaneously manage the helm, the watch and the preparation of the recovery equipment.
The Boutakow maneuver
The Boutakow maneuver, developed initially for large vessels but adapted to yachting, offers a methodical alternative that is particularly effective in difficult conditions or with a small crew. This technique starts with a first heading maintained in a straight line after the fall for about ten to fifteen boat lengths, which allows you to get far enough away to then have a comfortable maneuvering space. Once this distance has been covered, you make a complete turn of sixty degrees in the opposite direction to that of the fall, then you maintain this new course for a period equivalent to the first segment. You then make a second turn of 240 degrees that brings you back to the victim with an optimal approach angle, generally facing the wind and waves. The main advantage of this maneuver is its predictability and methodology, which reduce the risk of error in the stress of the situation. It also makes it possible to return to the castaway with a clear and stable trajectory, particularly valuable in rough seas where precise control of the boat becomes more difficult. This technique is particularly suitable for sailing boats and for situations where the boat continued a significant distance before the alert was given.
The immediate U-turn (Quick Stop)
The immediate U-turn method, or Quick Stop in English terminology, represents the fastest and often the most effective recovery maneuver, especially in the event of a fall in good visibility and calm seas. As its name suggests, this technique consists of turning edge immediately after the fall to return as quickly as possible to the victim in a tight arc. On a sailboat, this means leaving the headsails in place and turning wind up immediately, then letting the boat drift gently toward the person in the water while controlling the speed. On a motor boat, you make a sharp turn to one hundred eighty degrees, gradually reducing speed to stop in the immediate vicinity of the victim. The huge advantage of this maneuver lies in its simplicity of execution and the minimization of the time and distance of separation with the castaway, which significantly reduces the risks of losing visual contact and limits exposure to hypothermia. It works particularly well when sailing alone or with a small crew, as it does not require complex sail maneuvers. The main disadvantage is that it can be difficult to control in high winds or rough seas, and the final approach requires excellent boat control to avoid bumping into the person in the water.
Adapt the maneuver to the type of boat
Sailboat
Sailing boats have specific handling characteristics that fundamentally influence the choice and execution of a man's recovery maneuvers overboard. The presence of the rigging, the sail plan and the dependence on wind as a propulsion force create particular constraints but also tactical advantages. Immediately after the fall, the priority on a sailboat is generally to quickly lower the jib or genoa to reduce the speed of removal while maintaining the mainsail to maintain maneuverability. Some skippers prefer to leave the headsails faseyer rather than wasting time lowering them, which also makes it possible to slow the boat down. The eight-way maneuver or the Quick Stop method generally work well on a sailboat, taking care to approach the victim from the leeward side where they will be protected by the hull and where the sails are not likely to obstruct access. The auxiliary engine, if available, should be started as soon as possible to provide wind-independent propulsion during the final approach phase, which requires precise speed and trajectory control. Always remember to make sure that wirewires and other ropes are hanging in the water and are not likely to get wrapped around the propeller before starting the engine.
Motor boat
Motorboats offer superior maneuverability and immediate responsiveness that can greatly facilitate the recovery maneuvers of a person who has fallen into the water, provided certain essential precautions are respected. The available power makes it possible to make sharp turns and return quickly to the castaway, but this ability must be tempered by caution because propellers represent a mortal danger. The Quick Stop maneuver is particularly suitable for motor boats, allowing a quick return to the scene of the fall with a controlled arc of circle. As soon as the alert is given, gradually reduce the speed while starting a wide turn that will bring you back to the victim, then turn off the engines as soon as you approach a few meters to eliminate any risk of injury by the propeller. The final approach should ideally be wind and wave to facilitate the natural stopping of the boat, using the motors in short pulses if necessary to precisely adjust your position. The aft platform fitted to most modern motorboats makes retrieval considerably easier by providing easy and secure access to the water. Never forget that the top priority on a motorboat is to completely neutralize the propellers before any close recovery attempts are made.
Recover the man from the sea safely
Final approach and boat stop
The phase of final approach and stopping the boat represents a critical moment that requires a precise balance between speed of action and extreme caution. You must position your boat so that you can pick up the person from the lowest and most accessible point of your boarding area, generally the middle of the boat or the back depending on the configuration. The ideal approach is made by gently going up in the wind towards the victim, so that the boat stops naturally in the immediate vicinity thanks to the resistance of the wind and waves, without the need to use reverse gear, which represents a danger with the propeller. Calculate your residual speed so that you are almost at a standstill by the time you reach the person, always keeping a crew member posted to indicate precisely where the victim is in relation to the hull. If you miss your approach, don't panic but start the maneuver again calmly rather than trying random corrections that could hurt the castaway. Once stopped in the vicinity of the person, quickly assess their general condition observable from the boat, their ability to cooperate, and the best technique for hoisting them on board according to the means available and the configuration of the boat.
Techniques for hoisting a person on board
Ladder, halyard, hoist
Hoisting an exhausted and soaked person from the water to the bridge is one of the most difficult physical challenges in recovering a man from the sea. A person who is wet weighs considerably more because of the water absorbed through clothing and the suction effect of the water, and hypothermia may have already weakened their abilities to actively aid in their own recovery. A swim ladder, if your boat is equipped with one, is often the easiest solution for someone who is still able to climb, but it must be sturdy and secure enough to support weight and movement. An effective technique consists in using a mainsail halyard or genoa wire passed under the victim's armpits and then returned to a winch, creating an improvised hoist that considerably relieves the weight during hoisting. Some boats have a mooring hoist that can be diverted from its usual use for this rescue operation. If the person is aware and cooperative, they can help by pushing their feet against the hull while the crew is pulling on the halyard, thus distributing the effort between several people and increasing the efficiency of the maneuver.
Rear platform
The aft platform, standard equipment on most modern motor boats and increasingly present on recent sailboats, offers a privileged access point to recover a person who has fallen into the water. Located at or slightly above the water, this platform allows the castaway to get out of the water with much less effort than from the freeboard, especially if he can still use his legs to partially hoist himself up. Position the boat to bring the victim along the platform, then have them reach for the handrails or any other solid grip point. One or two crew members can then lie on the platform to firmly grasp the person by the arms, the life jacket, or a special strap, and gradually pull the person onto the platform. The major advantage of this method lies in its relative simplicity and the fact that it does not require specific lifting equipment. However, beware of the risk of a rescuer falling during this operation, because leaning over the water from an unstable platform presents a real danger, especially in rough seas. Rescuers must wear their life jackets and ideally be connected to the boat themselves by a safety lanyard.
Risks to avoid during recovery
The recovery phase itself concentrates numerous potential dangers that must be anticipated and avoided absolutely in order not to transform a rescue operation into an aggravated disaster. The most obvious and serious risk is propeller injuries, which can be fatal in seconds. The engines must be absolutely switched off and in neutral as soon as the person is near the back of the boat, without exception even if this complicates maneuvers. The risk of a second crew member falling is also a real danger during recovery operations, as attention is focused on the person in the water and on-board movements can be hasty and disordered. All rescuers should wear their vests and be mindful of their own safety while assisting the victim. The movements of the boat under the effect of the swell can trap the person against the hull and cause crashes, which are particularly dangerous if the castaway is between the boat and floating equipment such as a buoy. Pulling too hard on the victim's limbs should also be avoided, as the combined effort of several people can easily cause shoulder dislocations or other joint injuries.
After recovery: actions and safety
Assess the condition of the victim
Once the person is safely back on board, the emergency moves to the rapid but methodical assessment of their health condition and the implementation of appropriate first aid. Start by checking vital functions according to the classical protocol: consciousness by talking to him and watching his reactions, breathing by watching if his chest rises and listening close to his mouth, and circulation by taking his pulse on the wrist or neck. If the person is unconscious but breathing, place them in a safe lateral position to avoid suffocating if they vomit, which is common after immersion with water. Quickly look for visible injuries such as wounds, fractures, or head injuries that may have occurred during the fall or during recovery. Ask the victim if they are conscious about possible pain or abnormal sensations. Watch for signs of hypothermia, which we'll detail in the next paragraph, as well as for symptoms of shock, which can include extreme paleness, cold sweat, increased heart rate, and rapid, shallow breathing. Record mentally or in writing the time of the fall, the duration of immersion and the first symptoms observed, as this information will be valuable for the emergency services if you need to contact them.
Hypothermia and first aid
Hypothermia is the most frequent and insidious medical hazard after immersion in the sea, which can occur even in relatively temperate waters if exposure has been prolonged. The symptoms evolve in progressive stages that must be recognized in order to adapt care. In the mild stage, the person experiences intense shivers, numb hands and feet, slightly reduced coordination, and sometimes beginning mental confusion. The moderate stage is characterized by the cessation of chills paradoxically, marked lethargy, significant clumsiness and impaired judgment. The severe, life-threatening stage shows a total lack of reaction, muscle stiffness, and barely perceptible pulse and breathing. Management must be gradual and delicate because overheating can cause a potentially fatal shock. Place the victim sheltered from the wind in the saloon or cabin, gently remove all wet clothing and wrap them in dry blankets or a sleeping bag, giving priority to insulation against cold shells. Never rub the skin vigorously as this can cause serious heart problems. If the person is conscious and able to drink, offer them lukewarm sweetened drinks but never alcohol, which dilates the vessels and paradoxically worsens hypothermia.
Alert the emergency services if necessary (VHF, CROSS)
Even if the person seems to be doing well after recovery, it is often wise and sometimes vital to alert maritime emergency services to obtain medical advice and possibly organize an evacuation or an appointment with a medical boat. The call must be made on VHF channel sixteen by calling the CROSS (Regional Operational Center for Surveillance and Rescue) or the nearest semaphore for French territorial waters. Clearly specify your position in latitude and longitude, the name of your ship, the number of people on board, and accurately describe the condition of the victim by mentioning their level of consciousness, breathing, pulse, pulse, body temperature if you can measure it, and any symptoms observed. CROSS doctors will be able to give you precise instructions on what to do and will assess the need for a helicopter hoisting or evacuation by emergency boat. Never hesitate to trigger an alert in case of doubt, because professionals would much rather be called upon for nothing than to learn that a crew was slow to seek help in a critical situation. Connected systems such as the Oria Marine box can facilitate these emergency communications by automatically transmitting essential data from the ship. If your VHF is faulty, you can use a satellite phone or even a mobile phone if you are within network range, by dialing the maritime emergency number 196 in France.
Prevention: limiting the risks of humans at sea
Essential safety equipment
Life jackets
The systematic wearing of a life jacket is the most effective preventive measure to limit the consequences of a fall into the water and drastically increase the chances of survival. Modern vests offer an excellent compromise between safety and comfort, making them acceptable to wear even during prolonged sailing. There are several categories of vests adapted to different uses, from automatic vests with hydrostatic release that inflate upon contact with water and offer a buoyancy of one hundred and fifty newtons, to foam vests that are more traditional but reliable because they do not depend on any mechanism. The vests must be properly adjusted to the morphology of each user with the straps tight to prevent them from going up and interfering with breathing once in the water. Recent models often incorporate extremely useful additional features such as a safety harness to be attached with a lanyard, a hood that protects the head and limits heat loss, a whistle to signal your position, and a strobe light that automatically activates to be detected at night. It is imperative to regularly check the condition of your vests, to replace the CO2 cartridges after each triggering or according to the manufacturer's recommendations, and to test the manual inflation systems. Each crew member should have their own vest adapted to their weight and know how to use it properly.
Lifelines and lanyards
Beyond the life jacket that keeps the person on the surface after a fall, life lines and safety lanyards are the preventive system par excellence to avoid the fall itself. A life line is a cable or strap stretched from the front to the back of the boat on each edge, generally fixed securely at deck level and high enough for a lanyard to slide freely. Safety lanyards are straps equipped with carabiners that are attached on one side to the life jacket harness and on the other to the life line, creating a permanent physical link between the person and the boat. Modern systems generally include two lanyards of different lengths that allow you to remain permanently attached even when moving from one point to another on the boat. Carabiners must be of a secure type with an automatic locking system to avoid accidental opening. The systematic use of these lanyards should be mandatory for all trips on deck in bad weather, at night, or for anyone going to the front of the boat regardless of the weather. This discipline may seem restrictive but it is your best life insurance at sea.
Best practices on board
Safe trips
Preventing falls overboard begins with the adoption of behaviors and travel techniques adapted to the maritime environment. The fundamental rule is to always maintain three out of four support points when moving, which means keeping two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand in contact with solid support points on the boat. Move slowly and carefully, anticipating the boat's movements under the effect of the swell rather than allowing yourself to be surprised and unbalanced. Always use the dies, stanchions, handrails and other grip points installed just for this safety function. Avoid walking on deck with unsuitable shoes, choose boat shoes with non-slip soles and absolutely avoid flip-flops or barefoot in rough seas. Never carry a heavy or bulky load that would prevent you from restraining yourself in the event of sudden boat movement. When you have to perform a maneuver that monopolizes your hands, first position yourself in a stable place where you can rest your body against a fixed element. Avoid unnecessary trips on deck as much as possible during complex maneuvers or in bad weather, and if you absolutely have to move, always warn the rest of the crew.
Weather conditions and standby
Adapting your vigilance and practices to weather conditions is a crucial aspect of the prevention of accidents at sea. In calm weather and good visibility, sailing may seem relaxed but should never lead to a total relaxation of safety regulations, as an isolated wave or an unexpected boat movement can surprise at any time. In bad weather, with strong winds and heavy seas, the alert level must be maximum and all safety measures must be scrupulously applied, in particular the systematic wearing of a vest with harness and the use of lanyards for all trips. Navigation at night presents specific risks because reduced visibility makes travel more difficult and above all, a person who has fallen into the water becomes almost impossible to find without light equipment. Organize a rigorous watch system to ensure a constant watch that is not limited to scanning the horizon for other ships, but also includes monitoring your own crew and the deck. Each crew member on standby should regularly visually check that all other members are present on board, especially during shift changes. Always check the weather forecast before each trip and never hesitate to give up or postpone a trip if the forecast conditions exceed your capabilities or those of your boat.
Practice MOB maneuvers
Regular exercises
Mastering human maneuvers at sea cannot be acquired solely by theory or by reading articles, however detailed they may be. Regular practical training is the only truly effective method for developing the automation and crew coordination needed to react correctly in a real situation. Conduct comprehensive man-to-sea recovery exercises at least two to three times per season using a buoy or a defendant as a simulated victim. These exercises should be done in different wind and sea conditions to confront you with the variety of situations you may encounter. Time your maneuvers to measure your progress and identify steps that are taking too long. Vary the scenarios by simulating different configurations such as a small crew, a nightfall, or an unconscious person who cannot cooperate. Film your exercises if possible so that you can then analyze them collectively and identify areas for improvement. Do not hesitate to do surprise exercises by announcing “man overboard” at an unexpected moment to test the real reactivity of the crew without prior preparation. These trainings should be seen as an essential investment in your safety and that of your crew.
Crew briefing
Before each departure at sea, especially with new or inexperienced crew members, a comprehensive and structured safety briefing should be systematically organized. This briefing should methodically cover all aspects of the man-at-sea procedure, even if it may seem repetitive for regulars, as repetition reinforces memory and creates life-saving automations. Start by physically showing the location of all relevant safety equipment: life jackets and how to properly adjust them, the crown buoy and the IOR pole with their release mode, the MOB button on the navigation instruments, the VHF and how to launch a distress call, the flares and how to use them. Clearly explain the roles that everyone will have to play in the event of a man-at-sea alert, by naming who will be the permanent watchman, who will maneuver the boat, who will prepare the recovery equipment. Describe the maneuver (s) you prefer on your boat according to the conditions. Emphasize the vital importance of raising the alarm immediately and never assuming that someone else did. Encourage everyone to ask any questions they may have and to express any concerns they may have. This briefing should never be rushed or considered as a boring formality, but as an essential moment of collective preparation for an eventuality whose consequences can be dramatic.
Official regulations and recommendations
Recreational boating safety obligations
Recreational boating in France and in European waters is governed by a set of strict regulations that require the presence of specific safety equipment on board, some of which is directly linked to the management of the risk of man at sea. Division 240 of French regulations, which applies to all motor or sailing pleasure vessels, defines the mandatory equipment according to the navigation zone, classified from the closest to the coast to the farthest. For navigations beyond two miles from a shelter, mandatory equipment includes in particular a life jacket for each person on board, a crown buoy with a turning light, a means of light tracking, and a VHF for emergency communications. Obligations are becoming more stringent for navigation on the high seas, requiring in particular life rafts and pyrotechnic signaling devices. Beyond the strict regulatory obligation, it is strongly recommended to equip your boat with an IOR pole, a quick-release system for life saving devices, and life jackets with integrated harnesses for offshore navigation. Violators of these obligations are exposed to administrative and criminal sanctions, but above all they endanger the lives of their crew and that of the rescuers who will have to intervene in the event of an accident.
International rules and best practices
At the international level, the SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea) convention establishes maritime safety standards which, although initially designed for commercial vessels, largely inspire recommendations for yachting. Certification bodies and global nautical federations like World Sailing also issue safety regulations that responsible boaters should know and apply. Internationally recognized best practices include the obligation for any crew member leaving the cockpit in bad weather to wear a vest with harness and to use a lanyard, the recommendation to install a continuous life line along the entire length of the boat, and the systematic practice of regular exercises to recover a man from the sea. Ocean racing and professional navigation impose even higher standards, including automatic fall detection systems such as AIS personal beacons that emit a signal to precisely locate the person who has fallen into the water. Although this equipment is not mandatory in yachting, its gradual adoption testifies to a growing awareness of the importance of prevention and the constant improvement of emergency means.
FAQ — Man Overboard (MOB)
What should you do first when someone falls into the water?
The first three absolutely priority and inseparable actions to perform in the very first seconds following a fall into the water are to immediately shout “Man in the sea! ” to alert the entire crew, to instantly designate a permanent watchman who will continuously point his arm at the victim without interruption, and to press the MOB button on the GPS to record the exact position. These three reflexes must become automatic actions that are engraved in your muscular memory through regular training. Simultaneously, launch any flotation equipment available within reach at the person, even approximately, as this will provide vital support and facilitate their location. All other actions, however important, will come later after these initial life-saving reflexes.
What is the best solo MOB maneuver?
In solitary sailing, the Quick Stop maneuver is generally the most effective option because it minimizes the time of separation from the boat and does not require complex sail maneuvers that are difficult to perform alone. The technique consists in immediately veering to return to your position in a tight arc, leaving the sails faseyed if necessary to slow down. On a motor boat, make an immediate U-turn, gradually reducing speed. The main challenge alone lies in the impossibility of having a permanent watchman pointing at the victim, which is why it is absolutely important to activate the MOB button on the GPS and immediately launch flotation equipment equipped with fire and flag. Some experienced solo sailors also recommend taking a quick picture of the position with a telephone to get a visual cue, and using a personal AIS beacon that transmits your exact position to the boat tracker.
How to react in case of a man at sea at night?
A man at sea at night represents the most nightmarish scenario for any navigator because the almost zero visibility makes locating the victim extremely difficult, even at close range. The initial procedure remains the same with the voice alert, the MOB button, and the release of flotation equipment, but the importance of the light equipment becomes absolutely critical. Launch the IOR pole immediately with its flashing light and any other light device available. Switch on all of your deck lights and use a swivel spotlight to consistently scan the area. Activate your VHF immediately to alert nearby vessels that may be assisting the search with their own lighting equipment. GPS navigation to the MOB point becomes your main way back because visual references are non-existent. Lower your speed even more than during the day to avoid crashing into the victim in the dark. If you do not quickly locate the person, immediately trigger a distress alert at CROSS to mobilize professional search facilities equipped with radar, thermal cameras and powerful projectors.
Do I have to turn off the engine immediately?
No, you should definitely not turn off the engine immediately after the fall, because you need propulsion to maneuver and quickly return to the victim. The engine should only be switched off during the final approach phase, when the person is in the immediate vicinity of the back of the boat, generally less than five to ten meters away, to completely eliminate the fatal risk of propeller injury. Until then, use the motor normally to execute your return maneuver, always remaining aware of the victim's position in relation to your stern. If you are sailing with the engine switched off at the time of the fall, start it as soon as possible as it will give you a maneuvering ability independent of the wind that will be valuable for the precise final approach. The absolute rule is to never reverse until you are certain that the person is far from the propeller.
How do I use the GPS MOB button?
The MOB button is generally a physical red button clearly identified on your GPS or tracker, sometimes it is a function accessible via the touch screen in a quick menu. To use it, simply press firmly on it immediately after falling, without trying to confirm or navigate through menus. The device automatically records the exact GPS coordinates of your position when pressed, displays a special symbol on the map, often activates a visual and audible alarm, and switches to navigation mode to that point with a display of the distance and course to return. Some sophisticated systems even calculate an optimized route taking into account wind and current. Familiarize yourself with the specific operation of your device before browsing, as interfaces vary by brand. On modern connected systems such as the Oria Marine box, activation can also automatically trigger the sending of an emergency alert with coordinate transmission, adding an additional layer of security that is particularly valuable in solitary navigation.
What equipment is mandatory for a man at sea?
The French regulations for division two hundred forty impose a set of minimum equipment that varies according to the planned navigation area. For any navigation beyond two nautical miles from a shelter, you must have on board a life jacket that meets the standards for each person on board, at least a crown buoy with automatic turning light, a means of light tracking, and a fixed or portable VHF to communicate with the emergency services. For offshore navigation beyond six miles, requirements are increasing, including the requirement for safety harnesses, life lines, and pyrotechnic distress equipment. Beyond these minimum legal obligations, it is strongly recommended to equip your boat with an IOR pole that combines visibility and flotation, ascent ladders, vests with integrated harnesses even in coastal navigation, and ideally personal location beacons for each crew member during offshore navigation.
How to avoid hypothermia after recovery?
Preventing hypothermia after recovery starts with simple but crucial actions done methodically. Immediately install the victim in a place sheltered from the wind, ideally inside the saloon or a cabin. Carefully remove any wet clothing that continues to evacuate body heat through evaporation, but do so gradually without sudden movements that could cause shock. Dry the skin by dabbing gently with towels, then wrap the person in dry blankets, warm clothing, or a sleeping bag, especially isolating the head, which is a major area of heat loss. If the person is conscious and able to swallow, give them hot sweetened drinks such as tea or hot chocolate, but never alcohol that dilates the vessels and paradoxically worsens heat loss. Absolutely avoid forceful friction or direct exposure to an intense heat source like a radiator, as these abrupt heating methods can cause serious heart problems. Warming should be gradual and the ideal is skin-to-skin contact with a person at normal temperature in a sleeping bag, a technique used by mountain rescue professionals.
What to do if the person disappears from sight?
If you lose eye contact with the person who has fallen into the water, the situation becomes dramatically more complex but does not mean that all hope is lost. Focus immediately on your MOB point recorded on the GPS and navigate precisely to these coordinates that represent your last known position to the victim. Consider the likely drift caused by wind and current since the moment of the fall, as the person will have drifted in these directions. Gradually broaden your search by making concentric circles around the MOB point, methodically scanning the surface with all available visual means, especially binoculars. Immediately trigger a distress call on VHF channel sixteen by providing CROSS with your position, the coordinates of the MOB point, the time of the fall and a description of the person. The professional search resources mobilized by the emergency services, including helicopters, planes and specialized boats equipped with radar and thermal cameras, will considerably increase the chances of finding the victim. Continue your own methodical research until help arrives, as every minute counts and your precise knowledge of the area and circumstances of the fall is a valuable asset in guiding operations.
