Reach, Throw, Row, but Don't Go!

Drownings occur as often in fall and spring as in the summer. Most victims that were boating never intended to go into the water. A sudden fall overboard or a boat capsizing finds the boater suddenly in the water.

What Do You Do When Someone Can’t Get Out of the Water?

Reach, Throw, Row, but Don't Go! 
 

1. REACH: Hold on to the dock or your boat and reach your hand, a boat oar, a fishing pole, or whatever you have nearby, to the person

2. THROW: If you can’t reach far enough, toss things that float for the person to grab

3. ROW: If you’re in a boat, use the oars to move the boat closer to the person in the water, or call out to a nearby boat for help. Don’t use the boat’s motor close to a person in the water, they could be injured by the propeller

4. DON’T GO: Remember never enter the water to go after someone who is struggling unless you are trained in emergency water rescue only! Call out for help! 

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