Final answer:
If you fall overboard without wearing a PFD, stay calm and assess the situation. Stay afloat, signal for help, and try to stay with any nearby objects or debris. Protect your airway, use your clothing as a flotation device, and stay positive and hopeful until help arrives.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you fall overboard while not wearing a PFD (Personal Flotation Device), there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of survival until help arrives:
- Assess the situation: Stay calm and try to evaluate your surroundings. Look for any nearby objects that could help you stay afloat or reach safety.
- Float and conserve energy: If you're unable to swim to safety, it's important to stay afloat to conserve energy. You can do this by lying on your back and using a gentle sculling motion with your hands and feet to keep yourself buoyant.
- Signal for help: Wave your arms, shout for help, or make any other visible and audible signals to attract attention. Remember that drowning victims don't always shout for help, so it's crucial to be proactive in signaling your distress.
- Stay with the boat or debris: If there is a boat or any other floating debris nearby, hold on to it to increase your chances of being spotted. It can also provide some shelter from the elements.
- Protect your airway: If you're in rough water, be careful not to get water in your mouth. Stay focused on keeping your head above water and protecting your airway.
- Use your clothing as a flotation device: If you're wearing heavy clothing, such as jeans or a jacket, it can provide some buoyancy. Use the clothing by trapping air inside it and holding it tightly to your chest.
- Stay positive and hopeful: It's essential to maintain a positive mindset and stay hopeful until help arrives. Keep your spirits up and reassure yourself that help is on the way.