In a "man overboard" situation, why is it important to keep the person in sight?

In a "man overboard" situation, keeping the person in sight is crucial primarily to assist in rescue efforts. When someone falls overboard, their chances of survival significantly increase if they are quickly located and retrieved. By maintaining visual contact with the person, the operator of the boat can effectively maneuver the vessel to reach them without delay. This allows for timely action, such as throwing a life preserver or executing a rescue maneuver.

Additional factors come into play, such as the potential for the individual to struggle in the water, which can be exacerbated by conditions like waves, current, or fatigue. Maintaining sight of the person ensures that the rescue team can adjust their approach based on the person's movements and the surrounding conditions, minimizing the risk of losing critical time in facilitating a safe recovery.

While the other choices highlight some relevant concerns—like the importance of not losing the individual or ensuring they aren't swimming away—these points are secondary to the imperative of providing effective assistance during a rescue operation.