RYA Yachtmaster Emergency Procedures

Question 1

In a man overboard (MOB) situation, the immediate actions (first 30 seconds) should include:

Accepted Answer

Shout 'man overboard', deploy a danbuoy/horseshoe and throw line, press MOB on GPS, maintain visual watch, and turn the vessel back

Answer

Continue on course and note the position

Answer

Call the coastguard immediately before turning

Answer

Stop the engine to prevent propeller strike

Question 2

When returning to a MOB under sail, which manoeuvre gives the best control for the final approach?

Accepted Answer

Figure-of-eight or reaching return — approaching on a close reach allows speed control and the option to luff/spill wind on final approach

Answer

Running downwind at full speed for fastest return

Answer

Beating hard upwind to return on the same track

Answer

Anchoring and sending a dinghy

Question 3

Distress signals listed in COLREGs Annex IV include all EXCEPT which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Waving a flag with a large red cross

Answer

Orange smoke

Answer

MAYDAY by voice radio

Answer

Morse SOS by any signalling method

Question 4

A yacht is taking on water from a through-hull fitting that has failed. In the immediate term, the crew should:

Accepted Answer

Plug the hole with a tapered softwood bung or damage control materials, close any seacock, and operate all bilge pumps simultaneously

Answer

Abandon ship immediately

Answer

Heel the vessel to raise the leak above the waterline if possible — then plug

Answer

Drill additional holes to equalise pressure

Question 5

A crew member is suffering from hypothermia after being recovered from the water. The correct handling is:

Accepted Answer

Handle gently to avoid afterdrop — do not rub limbs — remove wet clothing, insulate on all sides including underneath, and call for medical help

Answer

Rub the limbs vigorously to warm them

Answer

Give hot drinks and alcohol immediately

Answer

Make them walk around to generate heat

Question 6

What is the internationally agreed signal for a helicopter rescue crew to stop hoisting a casualty?

Accepted Answer

Arms raised horizontally (like a 'T' shape) — the international signal to stop/hold hoist

Answer

Waving both arms upward rapidly

Answer

Giving a thumbs up

Answer

Shouting 'stop' into the radio