Boot Key Harbor
"Marathon- the Heart of the Florida Keys"

An On-Line Cruising Guide for the Florida Keys & Cuba
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Man Overboard

Those of you that remember the July 4^th storm here in Marathon a couple years ago will recall that a young man, an experienced sailor, was tragically lost overboard as the squall line hit. What about Man Overboard (MOB) procedures for your boat? Think about this and come up with a specific plan for your own boat, making sure all your family & crew are aware of it. When we’re out in good weather falling overboard isn’t really such a big deal – just swim back to the boat or circle around and pick them up. Imagine the same scenario in 6 foot seas if your 10 year old goes over – life jacket or not. You won’t even be able to see them most of the time in the trough of the waves and stand a good chance of losing them. What to do? The first thing is to shout (scream) Man Overboard as loudly as possible so everyone is aware. Someone should immediately throw something in that floats, the bigger & heavier the better so the wind won’t blow it away. This is important not just to have something to float on, but to give a point of reference for both the swimmer and the boat. The MOB poles are great for this because they are tall and can be seen above the waves so both parties can head toward the pole or float if they lose each other. The Helmsman (on a power boat) immediately cuts power and simultaneously pushes the MOB button on his GPS if you have one. This will keep you in the same area if you lose track and gives a reference for coordinated search & recovery if ever needed. Keeping the swimmer in view, circle closely nearby. If you have a long line & float like a lifesling then you can “lasso” them to pull them in. If not, look into weighted throw lines or the new “Frisbee” throw lines. Otherwise tie something to a long line so you can throw it to the swimmer. Pulling them onboard depends highly upon your specific boat and the seas. Swim platforms are convenient in good weather but could be deadly in heavy seas – crushing heads and faces as it slams down. Pulling them over the side is generally better, recovering them on the windward side so your boat doesn’t blow over them and “keel haul” them. What’s the detailed plan for your own boat? Think about it.