Man overboard procedures for pleasure craft action

	Information Compliments of the New Zealand Coast Guard
		MAN OVERBOARD PROCEDURES FOR PLEASURE CRAFTS ACTION
	When you first discover that someone has fallen overboard, the most important thing to remember is DON'T PANIC! If the person is on a lifeline, stop the boat immediately and then recover them using the lifeline/harness as necessary. If you are well prepared and have practiced the drill regularly, you will automatically know how to react.
	CHECK LIST Immediately throw a lifebuoy and attachment overboard. Raise the alarm by shouting: " MAN OVERBOARD" (Even if you are the only one left aboard, shouting "man overboard" may provide reasurance to the person in the water).
	If there are others on board, instruct a crew member to watch the person in the water and point continuously. Start your recovery manoeuvre. You may have to lower your sails and start you engine - beware of loose sheets fouling the propeller. If possible note your position - most navials have a MOB function - it may prove vital if contact is lost with the person in the water. REMEMBER the MOB function records where the person fell overboard - he/she will drift away with the tide. If you are the only person remaining on board, do not leave the deck as you may become disorientated and loose sight of the person in the water. During the hours of darkness, a white parachute flare, which will pick up the retro reflective tape on clothing/lifejacket, can be used to illuminate area. If you cannot see the person in the water. or have any doubt about your ability to recover him/her, send a mayday call on your VHF radio.

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