When should the OOD be notified?

The best choice for when the Officer of the Deck (OOD) should be notified is in life or death Search and Rescue (SAR) situations. In the context of maritime operations, the OOD has the responsibility to ensure the safety of personnel and the vessel. Life or death situations require immediate and decisive action, which is why notifying the OOD is critical. They can coordinate efforts, deploy resources, and communicate with other agencies to effectively respond to emergencies that could result in loss of life or serious injury.

While casualties and other emergencies are also important, not every situation requires immediate involvement from the OOD. Minor issues may not warrant their attention as these can often be handled at a lower level. It's essential to prioritize the most severe circumstances that require the highest level of command decision-making and resource allocation, which is precisely what is defined by life or death SAR scenarios. This clear delineation helps maintain a structured response and ensures that critical situations receive the urgency they demand.