Recreational Boating Safety - Man Overboard

In South Australia, most boating fatalities happen when people fall overboard, even in calm waters close to shore.

If somebody falls overboard

• swing the boat’s stern away from the person. In other words if they fall over the port side, turn to port. This will stop them being injured by the propeller.
• quickly throw them a lifesaving device such as a
  • life buoy
  • life jacket
  • PFD
  • buoyant cushion.
• keep them in sight at all times. If possible, get someone to act as a lookout while the operator manoeuvres the boat. At night, use the best available light to illuminate the area.
• try to approach them from downwind or into the sea. Help them on board and stop the engine if lifting them over the stern.