Prepare for the Alabama Boating License Exam. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get set to ace your boating license test!

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What should you do if you fall overboard into cold water?

  1. Try to swim to shore immediately

  2. Stay in the water and wait for help

  3. Signal for help using a distress signal

  4. Try to reboard your boat, even if it is swamped

The correct answer is: Try to reboard your boat, even if it is swamped

If you fall overboard into cold water, the most important thing to do is to get out of the water as quickly as possible. By trying to reboard your boat, you will reduce your exposure to the cold water and hypothermia. Although it may seem daunting, attempting to swim to shore immediately can lead to exhaustion and possible drowning. Staying in the water and waiting for help is not recommended as hypothermia can set in quickly and you may not be able to survive for long periods of time. Signaling for help using a distress signal can be useful, but it should not be your first priority. Your main focus should be on getting out of the cold water as soon as possible.