Final answer:
To ensure a Person in the Water's safety, you should keep them calm, communicate clearly, provide flotation if possible, and monitor their condition until they are safely aboard the boat.
Step-by-step explanation:
Once you are near enough to a Person in the Water (PIW) to make contact, you should keep the individual calm and ensure their safety until they can be safely brought on board the boat. If the situation is akin to the one mentioned where waves and currents are a factor, maintaining clear communication is key.
Provide reassurance and potentially a flotation device to keep them buoyant. The goal is to execute a safe rescue without causing additional panic or risk to either the PIW or those on the rescue vessel.
Throughout the rescue, it is important that the rescuers keep an eye on the PIW’s condition and movements, possibly offering words of encouragement or instruction. When finally aboard, taking measures to prevent hypothermia and addressing any immediate medical concerns becomes the priority. In any rescue situation at sea, preparedness, quick thinking, and maintaining a steady, calm environment can make the difference in the outcome.