ABANDON VESSEL

Abandon only when remaining aboard is more dangerous.

Send distress alert and MAYDAY if possible.

Activate EPIRB/PLB where carried and appropriate.

Put on PFDs and immersion protection.

Take the ditch bag only if immediately accessible without delaying escape.

Launch and board the survival craft using the vessel-specific procedure.

Enter the survival craft dry where possible.

Stay together.

Keep signaling and location equipment with survivors.

A damaged boat that is still floating can remain easier to locate than people in the water. Do not abandon merely because the situation is frightening.