If you are caught in severe storm conditions, what should be your first action?

In severe storm conditions, prioritizing safety is crucial, and putting on your life jacket is the appropriate first action. When wind, waves, and rain increase sharply, there is a significant risk of capsizing or being thrown overboard. A life jacket ensures that you remain buoyant and increases your chances of surviving in turbulent waters.

It is essential to secure your personal safety first before taking further actions, such as radioing for help, heading towards shore, or dropping anchor. While those options may also be important, they are secondary to ensuring you are protected and secured in the water. Putting on a life jacket should be a reflexive action, especially when you're aware that severe conditions are imminent.