When performing a rescue, what is a safe approach to approach a person in the water?

• A. Approach from the side, keep the person in the water line and bring them to the boat using a lifebuoy or line, avoid leaning over the bow.
• B. Approach from the bow and pull them aboard with a rope around the chest.
• C. Jump in and swim directly to the person without equipment.
• D. Approach from the stern and push them toward the boat.

Answer: (A)

The safe rescue approach is to come up beside the person from the side, keep the person at the waterline and use a lifebuoy or throw line to bring them to the boat. This method minimizes risk for both you and the person in the water by giving you a stable position alongside the boat, avoiding the dangers of leaning over the bow, and allowing you to control the distance with a buoyant aid rather than trying to physically lift someone from a vulnerable position.

Approaching from the side keeps you out of the bow area where a surge or movement could throw you off balance, and it reduces the chance of entanglement with rigging or the propeller. Keeping the person at the waterline means they can breathe and stay supported while you reach them with the equipment. Using a lifebuoy or line gives you a clear, controllable way to close the gap and pull them toward the boat without having to pull them over the edge or lift them directly.

Other options are risky because they rely on close contact or entry into the water without proper gear. Approaching from the bow and pulling with a rope around the chest can injure the person and restrict breathing, and it places you at greater risk of losing your grip or causing harm. Jumping in without equipment puts you in danger of drowning yourself and makes a swift, controlled recovery much harder. Approaching from the stern and pushing toward the boat can push the person away, cause panic, or lead to collision with the stern or other gear, making the situation worse.

Sticking to the side with a throw assist keeps the rescue controlled and safer for everyone involved.