iLearnToBoat Final Exam Practice Test

When a boat capsizes but remains afloat, hanging onto the boat or climbing onto it is the safest and most effective action to take. This is because the boat provides buoyancy and stability, which can help keep you above water and reduce the risk of hypothermia or exhaustion while you wait for assistance. Clinging to the overturned boat also increases your visibility to rescuers, making it easier for them to locate you.

Floating on or holding onto the boat helps to conserve energy, as swimming can quickly lead to fatigue. In addition, the boat can serve as a flotation device, making it less likely that you will get separated from it and putting you at greater risk in the water.

Other options such as jumping off the boat or swimming to a nearby rescue should generally be avoided in this situation. Jumping off could lead to losing the support of the boat, while swimming might exhaust you and reduce your chances of being rescued quickly. Staying with the capsized boat enhances your survival chances significantly.