How to Survive if Your Boat Capsizes

Boating, for the most part, is a safe activity that is fun for all ages. Most people take their boats out on the water and enjoy their time without incident. There are, however, times when weather and water conditions can become dangerous, causing a boat to capsize. If you know how to react and what to do in an emergency, you will have a greater chance of survival. Here at The Harbor (Boat & Yacht Sales) in Branson, we serve customers in Springfield and Kansas City, Missouri, and have a team of experts who can teach you how to survive when seconds count. 

Step 1: Wear the Right Gear

Wear the proper sized life jacket. Wear your life jacket at all times when you're out on the water, and make sure that you have one that fits. Everyone on the boat should be in their proper-sized jacket, even the dog. The Coast Guard requires that all children under the age of 13 wear life jackets at all times. Wearing your life jacket ensures that if you do fall overboard or the boat capsizes, you won't waste precious minutes trying to find and fit into your life jacket. 

Step 2: Account for all of Your Passengers

When the boat capsizes, you have mere seconds to get everyone to the surface. As soon as you are able, take a count of everyone who was on the boat, checking to ensure that nobody is trapped underneath. Assess their state, checking for any injuries. Keep everyone together in the same area and wait for help to arrive.

Step 3: Avoid Panic

We know this is easier said than done. If you have tried to get back onto the boat and been unable, you're probably afraid of what will happen next. Depending on how far out you are in the water, there is a good chance that a passing boat will spot you in the water and come to your aid. In addition, if you have briefed a friend or family member

of your plans in advance, they will sound the alarm when you don't arrive as planned. Try to remain calm, as panic will deplete your much-needed energy. Attract attention to yourself as best you can, but avoid screaming, crying or flailing unnecessarily. 

Step 4: Try to Get On the Boat

There are capsized boats that will automatically attempt to flip themselves upright. If your capsized boat does not, try to turn it upright and get back inside. If this is not possible, get on top of the boat. If you can't get on top, hold onto it. The goal here is to either get back into the boat or use it as a flotation device until help arrives. 

A boat capsizing is a nightmare scenario, but one that is survivable if you take the right steps. Here at The Harbor (Boat & Yacht Sales) in Winter Garden, Florida, we serve all of Orlando and The Villages. Our boating experts will teach you the survival skills you need for a safe boating experience. Stop in for a test sail today.