What actions are taken in a man overboard drill?

• A. Immediately alert others, point to the person in the water, and follow the ship’s man-overboard procedures.
• B. Stand by and observe from a distance.
• C. Sound a general alarm and ignore the person.
• D. Stop all engine and anchor the ship.

Answer: (A)

In a man overboard drill, speed, clear communication, and following a defined sequence are essential. Immediately alert others so the crew knows something is wrong and can respond quickly. Point to the person in the water so everyone has a precise visual reference for the location, reducing confusion as rescuers move to the spot. Then carry out the ship’s established man-overboard procedures, the standard steps used to recover someone safely and efficiently, with everyone acting in a coordinated way.

Delaying the alert, standing by to observe, or taking actions that slow or disrupt the rescue (like ignoring the person or stopping the engine and anchoring) would increase the danger and hinder the recovery.