What is the recommended response to a capsize?

• A. Stay with the craft if safe, wear PFD, keep afloat, aid others, and re-board using ladders or lines.
• B. Swim to shore immediately.
• C. Abandon ship and leave others.
• D. Jump into water to test depth.

Answer: (A)

In a capsize, the safest approach is to stay with the craft if it’s safe to do so, keep your personal flotation device on, stay afloat, help others stay afloat, and re-board using ladders or lines. This keeps you buoyant and highly visible to rescuers, while the craft offers a stable platform and flotation that reduces exhaustion and disorientation.

Why this works: remaining with the vessel maintains a secure reference point and makes it easier for rescuers to spot you. A PFD keeps your airway above water and protects against tiring or cold water. Helping others builds a team effort so everyone can be brought back aboard, and using ladders or lines provides a controlled, less-fatiguing way to re-enter the boat.

Why the other options don’t fit: swimming to shore immediately can lead to rapid exhaustion, being pulled off course by currents or boat traffic, and increasing the chance you won’t be found quickly. Abandoning ship leaves teammates behind and reduces rescue options. Jumping into water to test depth is dangerous and unnecessary—depth and hazards are unknown, and that action can lead to injury or separation from the group.