Final answer:
If a boat capsizes in open water, stay with the boat to stay afloat and be more visible. Only swim for shore if it's safe to do so and protect against hypothermia by keeping out of the water as much as possible. Debunk myths about drowning and understand the proper way to help.
Step-by-step explanation:
In most cases, if your boat capsizes in open water, the recommended course of action is to stay with the boat if possible.
Clinging onto the boat can help keep you afloat and make you more visible to rescuers. You should only attempt to swim to shore if it is nearby and you are confident in your swimming abilities to make it safely.
It is essential to protect yourself from hypothermia by keeping as much of your body out of the water as possible. If you are wearing a life jacket, it will help to keep your head above water even if you become fatigued.
Keep in mind that myths such as the belief that one can recognize a drowning person by their cries for help or that you should immediately start CPR in the water are false. The truth is, a drowning person might not be able to call out for help, and CPR should only be administered once the person is on stable ground. In a situation where every second counts, understanding these concepts can save lives.