What should you do if you witness another boat in distress?

When you witness another boat in distress, the most appropriate response is to assist if it’s safe to do so. This decision is grounded in the principles of boating safety and community responsibility on the water.

Helping those in distress is not only a moral obligation but also a legal one in many jurisdictions, as vessel operators are required to assist those in need when it is safe and reasonable to do so. This can involve providing physical assistance, such as offering the use of your boat for rescue, or relaying distress signals to the proper authorities. By intervening, you can help prevent potential loss of life or serious injury.

It's crucial to assess the situation carefully to ensure your own safety and the safety of your passengers while offering help. This is why the other options do not align with responsible boating practices; ignoring a distress situation or merely reporting it later could delay critical help and might have dire consequences for those in need. Calling the Coast Guard is certainly important as a part of the help process, but it should be done in conjunction with any immediate assistance you can offer, rather than as the sole action taken.