If practical, how should the raft be deployed from the boat?

If practical, how should the raft be deployed from the boat?

• A. Deployed Directly From the Boat - Avoid Entering the Water
• B. Deployed After Entering the Water
• C. Deployed From Shore After Dismounting
• D. Deployed Using a Spare Rope

Answer: (A)

Deploy the raft directly from the boat when practical. Keeping everyone on board minimizes exposure to waves and cold water, reducing the risk of slips and hypothermia while the raft inflates and drifts clear of the vessel. The raft is designed to release and inflate as soon as it’s free from the boat, using the painter line to push it away so occupants can board safely without entering the water. Entering the water adds serious hazards and slows rescue, and deploying from shore or using a spare rope isn’t as immediate or reliable in a ditching situation.

Deploy the raft directly from the boat when practical. Keeping everyone on board minimizes exposure to waves and cold water, reducing the risk of slips and hypothermia while the raft inflates and drifts clear of the vessel. The raft is designed to release and inflate as soon as it’s free from the boat, using the painter line to push it away so occupants can board safely without entering the water. Entering the water adds serious hazards and slows rescue, and deploying from shore or using a spare rope isn’t as immediate or reliable in a ditching situation.