On Tue, 07 Aug 2007 23:34:36 -0400, DownTime
wrote:

What should be the procedure of a MOB in some very bad (limited
visabibility) weather? Assuming you noticed right away, do you react in
time and mark the spot then maneuver for the recovery? I hope to never
have to find out, either as a rescuer or rescuee.

Any MOB situation is tough because of any number of factors.

The most important is adrenalin - the holy smoke, I've got to do
something response is what gets most people in trouble.

In the situation you described sans electronics, take your compass
bearing, call MOB, give your position and bearing, post your lookouts
then perform what ever rescue turn you are comfortable with to
initiate the search. It's always a good idea to shut the engine down
for a short period of time to listen for voice calls and to use voice
calls.

Same deal with a GPS equipped boat - there really isn't much you can
do other than that.

With respect to trusting electronics, as Gene said, electronics are an
aid to navigation and a valuable tool to use, but nothing replaces
calm approaches to difficult situations. Posting lookouts, getting
folks into PFDs, reviewing emergency procedures for passengers - it's
all a part of properly reacting to these types of events.

You'd be amazed at how many people don't even think about these kinds
of situations - call it pre-planning.