Final answer:
If a vessel capsizes, stay calm, account for everyone, stay with the boat for flotation, signal for help, and conserve energy. Remove a drowning person from the water before starting CPR on stable ground.
Step-by-step explanation:
If your vessel capsizes and remains floating upside down, the first step is to stay calm and perform a head count to ensure everyone is present and accounted for. The next action is to stay with the boat if it's still afloat and stable, rather than attempting to swim to shore, as it will provide some level of flotation and visibility for rescue. If possible, climb onto the capsized boat to keep as much of your body out of the water and to help avoid hypothermia. Signal for help by using a whistle, mirror, or flares if available. Meanwhile, conserving energy and remaining calm are crucial as help arrives or as conditions allow for safer self-rescue efforts.
In a situation where someone is drowning, it is important to first remove the person from the water before attempting to administer CPR. Performing CPR is ineffective and nearly impossible in the water. Once on stable ground, it is then that you should begin CPR, if they are unresponsive and not breathing normally.