In a rescue, when should you throw a flotation device?

Throwing a flotation device is an essential skill during a rescue scenario, especially if direct physical assistance might be unsafe. In situations where a boat is unavailable, throwing a flotation device can be a critical action because it allows the rescuer to provide immediate assistance while maintaining a safe distance from the victim. This is particularly important in conditions where approaching the victim directly could put the rescuer at risk, such as in rough waters or if there is a possibility of the victim panicking.

The concept behind this action is to give the victim something to hold onto, which can aid in keeping them afloat until further help can arrive or until a boat is able to assist. This method not only mitigates danger to the rescuer but also maximizes the chance of helping the victim stay safe.

While the other options may include important considerations for specific scenarios, they do not address the general necessity of using a flotation device effectively when a boat is not at hand.