What does "man overboard" mean?

The term "man overboard" specifically refers to a situation where an individual falls off a vessel and into the water. It is a critical incident that requires immediate attention and action from the crew of the vessel. When a man overboard situation occurs, the crew must initiate rescue procedures promptly to retrieve the individual from the water, as their safety is paramount.

Understanding the term is essential for watchstanders as it entails not only the recognition of a potential emergency but also the implementation of safety protocols, including signaling, maneuvering the vessel, and potentially coordinating assistance if needed. This response involves specific actions such as broadcasting a distress signal, marking the location, and deploying rescue boats or personnel, which underscores the comprehensive nature of emergency preparedness in maritime operations.