58 BASIC POWERBOATING. SAFETY & RESCUE FOR SAILING INSTRUCTORS 9. RESCUE OF PERSON IN WATER


KEY CONCEPTS E PIW Rescues E Retrieval of PIW


PERSON-IN-WATER RESCUES 1 Maintain sight throughout the rescue. If available, a crew member on your boat should serve as the designated spotter by pointing at and keeping the person-in-water (PIW) in sight at all times.


2 If the PIW is in close proximity, the maneuver should begin with an avoidance turn, which will swing the stern of your boat away from the PIW.


3 Continue your turn until your stern is toward the wind and proceed downwind a distance of 3-4 boat lengths. It is advisable to communicate with the PIW to let them know that you are positioning your boat for their recovery.


4 As you progress downwind, continue to assess the situation and environment, paying attention to boat traffic, wind direction, and sea state.


5 Turn the bow of the boat toward the PIW and begin your approach.


Final Approach 6 Approach PIW slowly at minimum control speed, bow first and headed into the wind. Keep the PIW positioned on the operator’s side of the boat, to maintain visual contact for the operator throughout the rescue and enable the operator to communicate and reassure the person.


7 Assess condition of PIW. Is the person unconscious, injured, or suffering from the effects of cold water immersion, hypothermia, or fatigue? Ask how the person feels and look for the “okay” hand signal.


8 Shift into neutral and coast to a stop near the PIW, keeping propeller away from the PIW. If the PIW is not wearing a life jacket, throw a life ring, cushion, or life jacket.


Make Contact 9 Make physical contact with a boat hook, paddle, line, or a throw line. Turn off the engine once contact is made, or if there is any risk of the person coming close to the propeller. Keep communicating and reassuring the PIW.


5 Race Track Rescue


3 Maneuver to position downwind of PIW.


WIND 2 PIW


8 Coast to PIW. Make contact; turn off engine.


6 Approach at minimum control speed.


WIND


J Attach PIW to boat with a looped line or sling.


9 Make contact and turn off the engine.


8 Shift into neutral and coast to a stop near PIW.


6 Approach at minimum control speed downwind of the PIW.


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