What is the purpose of a throwable flotation device on deck?

• A. To provide immediate flotation to a person in the water and assist rescue.
• B. To store spare ropes.
• C. To mark the location of a crew member.
• D. To inflate the boat's hull.

Answer: (A)

A throwable flotation device is kept on deck to provide immediate buoyancy to a person in the water and to aid in rescue. In a man-overboard situation, time matters, and throwing a buoyant ring or cushion to the swimmer gives them something to stay afloat right away while the rescuers organize a pickup. If the device includes a line, it also helps bring the person toward the boat without needing to reach desperately with your hands. It’s not meant for storing spare ropes, marking someone’s location, or inflating the boat’s hull—those are done by different gear or systems.