1. Conserve your signals until you are reasonably sure of being sighted. Wait until you see or hear a vessel or aircraft before using "one-time" signals.

2. Stay with the boat if it is safe to do so. A boat is easier to spot than a swimmer.

3. U.S. Coast Guard approved marine signals improve your chances, but anything that works is good. USE COMMON SENSE! Shout, flash your running lights, wave a piece of clothing, use your windshield as a mirror, flash a flashlight, ANYTHING that's available to attract attention. Above all, DON'T PANIC!

4.Familiarize yourself with your signals before you leave shore. Time is important in any emergency and shouldn't be spent reading instructions.