27/05/2026
🛟 Boating incidents can happen very quickly, sometimes much quicker than you can put on a lifejacket. So assuming you had yours on and survived the capsize, do you know what to do next?
𝐖𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐣𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞.
You would be surprised at how often we respond to a call for help and find that no one is wearing their life jackets.
A capsize occurs when a boat overturns or tips over, often due to rough weather, uneven weight distribution, sudden movements, or high waves. However, many modern boats are built with flotation chambers or air-filled hulls, allowing them to remain buoyant even when flipped or partially submerged.
In such situations, panicking can make things worse. Knowing what steps to take next can turn a dangerous event into a manageable survival situation.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
Panic wastes energy and leads to poor judgement. Take a few deep breaths, check your surroundings, and assess the situation before acting.
2. Ensure Everyone Is Safe and Accounted For
Quickly locate all passengers. Make sure everyone is wearing or has access to a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD). Staying together increases visibility and makes it easier for rescuers to spot you.
3. Stay With the Boat
The overturned vessel is much easier for rescuers to see than individuals floating alone in open water. Even if the boat is upside down, it can still act as a floating platform to support your weight and prevent exhaustion. Only leave the boat if it is in a dangerous position and heading towards a hazard. Try to make the vessel appear larger on the surface by tethering objects to it. Make sure to save the flares for the moment when they are most likely to be seen by rescuers.
4. Avoid Trying to Swim to Shore
Unless the shore is very close and conditions are calm, do not attempt to swim away from the boat. Remaining with the floating vessel increases your survival chances significantly. Swimming long distances in open water can quickly lead to fatigue and hypothermia.
5. Climb Onto the Hull If Possible
If your boat remains stable upside down or on its side, try to climb onto the exposed part of the hull. This will keep your body out of cold water, helping you conserve body heat and energy. However, if climbing increases the risk of flipping the boat again, stay in the water while holding onto the side.
6. Signal for Help
Use visual distress signals, whistles, mirrors, or bright clothing to alert rescuers. If you have access to an EPIRB or a marine radio, use them immediately to call for help.
Use flares when:
- You can see or hear a boat or aircraft in the vicinity.
- You are reasonably sure someone on shore is in a position to see your signal.
- You have already transmitted a Mayday call via VHF radio or other means, and flares can help rescuers pinpoint your location.
7. Stay Hydrated and Conserve Energy
If you are stranded for an extended period, focus on conserving energy and avoiding unnecessary movements. Dehydration and exhaustion can set in quickly in marine emergencies, so remain as still and calm as possible.
𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝
It’s just as important to understand what not to do:
Do not abandon the boat unless it is sinking completely or floating towards danger.
Avoid panicking or thrashing in the water.
Don’t attempt to retrieve gear or belongings that may have fallen overboard.
Never remove your life jacket, even if the water feels calm.
Avoiding these mistakes greatly improves your safety and rescue chances.
𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐬𝐢𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠
Prevention is the best strategy. To minimise the risk of capsizing follow these essential safety practices:
Always distribute weight evenly in the boat. Make sure heavy items are secured and can't shift around.
Avoid standing or making sudden movements.
Never overload your boat beyond its capacity.
Check weather conditions before launching.
Always Log On with Marine Rescue so we know you're out there.
In rougher seas, take waves head on or at a slight angle. Use low power and do not turn suddenly.
Ensure everyone wears a life jacket at all times.
Have a Grab Bag ready onboard with safety gear.
Before crossing a Bar, monitor conditions, for more information on crossing coastal bars check this link. https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/using-waterways-boating-and-transport-information/waterways-and-designated-areas/navigate-coastal-bars-locations-webcams-boating-safety-advice/crossing-coastal-bars
Practising good boating safety habits can prevent capsizing and prepare you to handle emergencies effectively.
𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐭 𝐈𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞, remember that your vessel acts as a lifeline. It provides:
Visibility: Easier for rescuers to spot.
Flotation: Helps conserve energy and prevents drowning.
Protection: Offers partial shelter from waves and cold water.
Staying connected to your boat dramatically increases the likelihood of a safe rescue.
