NavalMan overboard: what the crew does
U.S. Coast Guard rules for commercial fishing vessels list what to do when someone falls overboard, and require the crew to drill it every month. This guide follows 46 CFR Parts 28 and 199.
Free to startThe first moves
Throw a ring life buoy as close to the person as possible, post a lookout to keep the person in sight, and launch the rescue boat to pick them up. A crewmember in a lifejacket or immersion suit, on a safety line, stands by to jump in and help if needed.
If the person is not found right away
Notify the Coast Guard and other vessels nearby, and keep searching until the Coast Guard releases you. The emergency instructions, including the man overboard procedure, are posted where the crew can see them.
The monthly drill
The master runs drills and instruction for everyone on board at least once a month, as if the emergency were real, breaking out and using the emergency equipment. Recovering a person from the water is one of the ten contingencies drilled. Practice the rescue free with Blocky.
Official sources
Man overboard on a fishing vessel
46 CFR Part 28 sets the posted emergency instructions, the man overboard procedure and the monthly drills on commercial fishing vessels.
Drills on inspected vessels
46 CFR Part 199 requires every crewmember to take part in at least one abandon-ship drill and one fire drill every month.
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