Final answer:
A person who falls out of a boat should remain calm, get clear of the boat to avoid injury, use a life jacket if available, and signal for help.
Step-by-step explanation:
A person who has unintentionally fallen out of a boat should manage the situation with calmness and presence of mind, ensuring that they get well clear of the boat. This is crucial to avoid the risk of injury from the boat or getting trapped underneath it in case of capsizing. The swells of the ocean may be overwhelming, but it's essential to remember that panicking can only make things worse.
It's advisable for the person to float or tread water if they are able to, conserving energy and signaling for help. If there is a life jacket available, it should be used to help stay afloat. Efforts should be made to watch for rescue or to slowly swim to safety if it's within a reasonable distance and the person is a strong swimmer.
Encountering such an ordeal can be a test of one's will and survival skills. The narrative discusses the oiler, who, while adept at handling the oar to steer clear of dangerous waters, is also vulnerable to the sea's unpredictability, illustrating the importance of being vigilant. The calm and practical advice provided by the captain shows the significance of clear thinking in such emergency situations.
The oiler and correspondent's planning to take turns resting highlights the need for endurance and strategic thinking. Meanwhile, the action of a person swimming to shore, the aid provided by the rescuer, and the united efforts to save each other show the essence of teamwork and compassion in times of crisis.