Which action is necessary during a boating emergency?

During a boating emergency, using distress signals and ensuring all individuals on board are accounted for is essential for the safety and effective management of the situation. Distress signals, such as flares or other signaling devices, communicate to nearby boats and rescuers that assistance is needed. This increases the chances of a swift and effective response from others in the area.

At the same time, confirming that everyone on the vessel is safe is crucial. This helps in understanding the situation and the immediate needs of each person. It also provides clarity when help arrives, as rescuers need to know how many individuals were on board and if anyone is missing.

Remaining calm is important, but it's active steps like using distress signals and accounting for people that directly contribute to resolving the emergency. Calling 911 might be appropriate in certain situations, but without distress signals, it may delay assistance. Taking photos of the damage, while potentially useful for insurance or reporting later, does not relate directly to managing the crisis at hand.