What should you do if your boat capsizes?

If your boat capsizes, the best course of action is to stay with the boat if it remains afloat. This is because an overturned or capsized boat provides better visibility for rescuers than a person in the water. Staying with the boat also allows you to use it as a flotation device, which increases your chances of survival in water, especially if you're not a strong swimmer or if the water is cold. Additionally, rescuers often look for vessels in distress as their primary focus, making it likely that you will be spotted if you remain close to the boat.

Swimming to shore immediately can be risky, as it may lead you away from the safety of the boat and into treacherous conditions. Attempting to right the boat by yourself can also be dangerous because it may further destabilize you or leave you in a precarious situation. Abandoning the boat entirely can lead to disorientation and increase the risk of drowning, particularly if you're unable to swim effectively. Therefore, staying with the flotation device enhances your chances for survival and increases the likelihood of a successful rescue.