What should you do if your boat capsizes?

Staying with the boat after a capsize is crucial because it is generally more buoyant than a person in the water. A capsized boat can serve as a flotation device, providing support until rescue arrives. This is especially important in open water where conditions may be unpredictable.

In many cases, the boat can help keep you visible to rescuers or passing boats, which improves your chances of being found. Additionally, swimming away from the boat can lead to exhaustion or disorientation, particularly if you are in cold water or if the weather is inclement.

While flipping the boat upright may seem like a quick solution, it can often be dangerous or difficult to achieve in choppy waters. Similarly, swimming to shore immediately might not be the safest choice, as it could be a long distance or the current might take you further away from safety. Using a phone to call for help is important, but if you have already capsized, the priority should be to stay with the vessel if possible for maximum safety and buoyancy until help arrives.