BOATsmart! USA Knowledge Base

If another boater is in distress, you are required to provide them with assistance, so long as helping them does not place you, your passengers or your boat in a dangerous position. This is the case if you are in an accident with another boat, if you see or hear a distress signal, or if you simply suspect that there’s trouble on the water. If you determine that it’s too dangerous to approach the boat in distress, you must contact the appropriate authorities who will be able to provide the victims with assistance.