What is the best practice if your boat starts taking on water?

When your boat starts taking on water, the best practice is to use a pump or bail water out. This approach directly addresses the immediate problem, helping to keep the boat afloat and stabilize the situation. Employing a pump or manually bailing out the water allows you to actively manage the situation, rather than simply reacting to panic or leaving the vessel without taking corrective measures.

It's important to take swift action to remove water as quickly as possible, which can prevent the boat from sinking. By staying calm and focusing on bailing or pumping water out, you can maintain control and address the issue effectively. This practice is especially vital in emergency situations where time and proper response are critical.

Heading to shore or turning off the engine can be part of a larger plan but do not directly mitigate the immediate issue of water entering the boat. Panic and abandoning the boat can lead to unsafe situations, and it is generally best to remain with the vessel unless it is completely unmanageable. Being proactive in addressing the water intrusion is essential for ensuring safety on the water.