MAN OVERBOARD!

By H. A. Johnson.

OFF TO THE RESCUE.

The cry of “Man overboard!” always has a startling sound on an ocean vessel. In a naval ship, such accidents, or emergencies, are provided against in advance. Two boats, one on each side of the ship, are kept ready for instant use, and are equipped with everything necessary for a speedy rescue, as well as an outfit, including provisions, for a prolonged search in case immediate rescue is not possible. Picked seamen in each “watch” are assigned to special duty as a life-boat crew, and must be ready to jump into their boat at a moment’s notice.

Some ships are provided with “life-buoys”—queer-looking objects hanging from the stern. In case of a man’s falling overboard at night, one of these life-buoys can be dropped into the water, and lighted immediately, so that the poor fellow can strike out for it at once and cling to it until picked up.

Sometimes, however, the sea runs so high that no small boat could be lowered without swamping and perhaps drowning the entire crew. To decide the question whether to attempt the rescue of a poor fellow who has fallen overboard, at the risk of losing others who might be sent to his aid, is a fearful responsibility for a commanding officer, and requires the coolest exercise of his judgment.