What immediate action should a skipper take if someone falls overboard?

The immediate action a skipper should take if someone falls overboard is to get flotation to the person and assign a spotter. This is critical because it ensures the safety of the person in the water while minimizing the risk of further incidents. Providing flotation aids helps keep the person buoyant and safe until they can be retrieved.

Assigning a spotter is just as important, as it allows someone to remain focused on the individual who has fallen overboard, maintaining visual contact and guiding the skipper on their location. This can help ensure that the rescue operation is executed efficiently and safely.

Other actions, such as calling for help on the radio or jumping into the water, while potentially important, can complicate the situation. Jumping in could lead to two people needing rescue instead of one. Circling back quickly can be risky if not implemented correctly, as it could endanger both the person in the water and those on the boat if the operator isn't careful with the maneuvering. Therefore, the best immediate course of action after someone has fallen overboard is to secure flotation and maintain visual contact.