©2017 Skier’s Choice, Inc.
21
Abandoning Ship
BURN HAZARD
Swim against the current or wind if you abandon ship.
Leaking fuel will oat with the current and may ignite.
• When clear of danger, account for all who were on board,
and help those in need.
• Use distress signal.
• Keep everyone together to make rescue easier.
Flooding, Swamping or Capsizing
• STAY WITH THE BOAT! A boat will usually oat even if
there is major hull damage. Rescuers can spot a boat
much easier than a head bobbing in the water.
• Signal for help.
Collision
• Account for everyone on board.
• Check for injuries.
• Inspect structural damage.
• Reduce ooding.
• Signal for help.
• STAY WITH THE BOAT!
Grounding
Action depends on how hard the boat hits bottom and whether the
boat remains stranded. If it is a simple touch, you may need only to
inspect the hull. If you are aground, assess the situation before reacting.
In some cases, throwing the boat into reverse can cause more damage.
Basic Guidelines
• Inspect damage to hull, propulsion and steering systems.
• Check for leaks. If water is coming in, stopping the ow takes
priority over getting free.
• Determine water depth all around the boat and type of bottom
(sand, mud, rocks, etc.). This will help you decide which way to
move the boat.
• Determine if tide, wind or current will drive the boat harder aground
or will help free it.
Leaks
• Immediately switch on bilge pumps.
• Assign crew to operate manual pumps, if needed.
• If boat is taking on water, have someone take the helm while you
manage damage control.
• Slow or stop to minimize inow. However, if you can keep a hole
above water by maintaining speed, do so.
• If possible, patch the outside with whatever material is available.
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