What actions should you take if your boat runs aground?

When a boat runs aground, assessing the situation and checking for damage is crucial. This ensures the safety of everyone on board and the integrity of the vessel. If the boat is aground, you should first verify that all crew members are safe and unharmed. Following this, inspecting the boat for any visible damage, such as leaks or structural issues, is essential to determine whether it can be safely moved or if further assistance is needed.

If the assessment reveals that the boat is damaged or if there are indications that getting unstuck may be difficult or risky, calling for help may be the best course of action. This may involve contacting the local Coast Guard or a nearby towing service for assistance.

While other options may seem to offer solutions, taking the time to properly assess the situation enhances safety and ensures the best decision-making process is followed. For instance, abandoning ship can lead to unnecessary risks, and reversing the engine without understanding the situation could potentially exacerbate the grounding. Allowing the boat to remain aground until low tide might not address potential damages or threats to safety.