What should a boater do in the event of a capsizing?

Staying with the boat and signaling for help is the best course of action in the event of a capsizing. A boat is usually more visible and can provide better buoyancy than attempting to swim to shore or abandon it. It increases the chances of being spotted by rescuers since the boat may attract attention and is less likely to drift away in the water. Moreover, if the person remains with the boat, it can provide some level of safety and a potential means of flotation while waiting for assistance.

In contrast, abandoning the boat could lead to disorientation in the water and make it more challenging to signal for help. Swimming to shore can be dangerous due to exhaustion, currents, or hypothermia, and it may also lead to a longer time before help is received. While calling for assistance using a radio is important in some scenarios, if the boat is capsized, the immediate priority should be to remain with the vessel for safety and visibility.