What is the primary responsibility for a vessel operator assisting a boat in distress?

The primary responsibility for a vessel operator assisting a boat in distress is to ensure the safety of their own vessel and crew while providing aid. This principle is crucial because if the assisting vessel also becomes endangered, it can complicate the situation further and put more lives at risk. The operator must first evaluate whether they can safely approach the distressed vessel without jeopardizing their own safety.

While providing immediate assistance or assessing the situation is certainly important, these actions must come after ensuring that the operator and their vessel are not in danger. If the operator must wait for official help, they may still need to monitor the situation to ensure no further escalation occurs. Therefore, maintaining safety is paramount, as it allows for effective assistance without exacerbating the crisis at hand.