Recovering an unconscious person from the water requires care, stability, and the right equipment to minimize further injury and reduce the risk of post-rescue complications.

  1. Use Horizontal Recovery (Parbuckle) whenever possible
    • Life the person horizontally, not vertically, ideally with a device that’s at least 4ft wide to ensure the neck and back are supported.
    • Supports the entire body evenly and helps prevent post-rescue collapse, which can happen when blood suddenly rushes to the heart after prolonged immersion.
    • Especially important for unconscious, hypothermic, or injured individuals.
  2. Appropriate Recovery Device
    • Cradles and baskets are ideal because they allow horizontal lifting.
    • Stretchers are recommended for injured or unconscious persons, providing rigid support and minimizing movement during the lift.
    • Scramble nets or ladders may only be suitable if combined with mechanical aids to allow a horizontal lift.
    • Recovery poles can be used when an MOB is conscious, in suitable conditions (such as calm or warmer waters), and the person is able to hold on and assist in their own recovery.
  3. Crew Handling and Safety
    • Ensure trained personnel operate the lifting device.
    • Use coordinated signals to safely raise the person without jerking or sudden movements.
    • Keep the person’s airway clear and monitor for breathing during the lift.
  4. Post-Recovery Care
    • Once aboard, move the person to a warm, safe area.
    • Begin first aid, including CPR if necessary.
    • Monitor for hypothermia, shock, or other complications.

Our team’s suggestion: We recommend using a cradle or scramble net at least 4 ft (1.2m) wide to support the spine and enable a safe horizontal (parbuckle) lift. The best option doubles as both a climbing ladder for conscious persons and a parbuckle recovery system for unconscious or hypothermic individuals.

Pairing the cradle or scramble net with a reach device, such as the Reach and Rescue telescopic pole and body hook, can help pull the person closer to the vessel’s rescue zone before lifting.

Having a secondary recovery option on board is also valuable. The Markus MS.10 or MateSaver can be deployed quickly and are particularly helpful if the MOB is conscious and able to assist in their own recovery.