Reach, Throw, Row, or Go

If you are on a dock when someone falls in, you should try to “talk” the victim to safety. If he or she is unable to get to the dock, you should use these rescue techniques.

Reach

Extend a fishing rod, branch, oar, towel, or other object to REACH out to the victim and pull him or her to safety. If nothing is available, lie flat on the dock, grab the victim’s hand or wrist, and pull him or her to safety.

Throw

If the victim is too far away to reach and a boat isn’t handy, THROW the victim a PFD or anything else that will float.

Row

If a rowboat is available, ROW to the victim and then use an oar or paddle to pull the victim to the stern. Let the victim hold onto the stern as you paddle to shore. If the victim is too weak, hold onto him or her until help arrives. If using a powerboat, stop the engine and glide to the victim from the downwind side.

Go

Swimmers without lifesaving training should not swim to a victim. Instead, GO for help. If you must swim, take along anything that floats to keep between you and the victim.