🔍 Key Concepts

• Windward vs. leeward – which side is downwind and which is upwind? • How wind and waves affect a person in the water and a small rescue boat • Boat control at low speed when turning and stopping near a person in the water

💭 Think About

• Think about which side gives you better control of the boat’s movement relative to the wind and seas when you are almost stopped. • Consider whether you want the wind pushing the boat toward the person or away from the person as you come alongside. • Picture the person in the water: how will wind and waves move them relative to your hull if you choose each option?

✅ Before You Answer

• Be clear on which side is leeward (downwind) and which is windward (upwind). • Ask yourself: in a man‑overboard recovery, is it safer if the casualty drifts toward the boat or if the boat drifts toward the casualty? • Verify which approach gives you maximum control and minimizes risk of the hull or propeller contacting the person.