The appropriate response to a person overboard is to mark the location and return to assist safely. This method ensures that you can accurately pinpoint where the incident occurred, which is vital for a successful rescue. By keeping the area in sight and maintaining a position relative to the victim, you increase the chances of a safe and timely recovery.
Additionally, returning to the scene allows you to approach with caution, reducing the risk of creating waves or wake that could endanger the person in the water. It also enables you to assess the situation better before getting close, ensuring the safety of both the victim and yourself.
Other responses, such as speeding away for help, could delay assistance, while throwing items to the person may not provide effective support and could result in the victim becoming overwhelmed. Staying put waiting for them to swim to you could be dangerous; depending on the individual’s ability to swim, they might need immediate help. Marking the location and returning ensures that you can provide the most effective assistance possible.