If recovery gear is not available, what is the recommended MOB recovery approach?

• A. Stop or slow, circle into position, deploy recovery gear if available, guide the person aboard with deck crew assistance, and secure.
• B. Speed up toward MOB and jump in immediately.
• C. Turn away and ignore.
• D. Only raise an alarm and do nothing.

Answer: (D)

When someone goes overboard and you don’t have recovery gear, the safest and most effective approach is to stop or slow the boat, circle back toward the person, and bring them aboard with the help of the deck crew. Maintain visual contact at all times, shout commands to coordinate, and use any available throwables or improvised flotation aids if you have them. Have a deck crew member assist you to lift or pull the person aboard and secure them once on board. This method prioritizes control of the vessel, clear communication, and a coordinated recovery, rather than rushing in or ignoring the situation. Jumping in unprepared or simply raising an alarm without attempting to return to the MOB can put both you and the person in greater danger, and turning away means you’ll likely lose sight and lose the chance for a successful recovery.