What should crew members do if they see wreckage adrift?

When crew members encounter wreckage adrift, the appropriate course of action is to report it to authorities. This response is critical because the wreckage could potentially be related to an accident involving injured individuals or lost persons. By informing the appropriate agencies, such as the Coast Guard or local maritime authorities, they can coordinate a search and rescue operation. Additionally, reporting the wreckage ensures that it can be properly assessed and addressed to prevent further hazards to navigation and safety on the water.

While crew members might feel an instinct to investigate for survivors or approach the wreckage, these actions could pose significant risks. Investigating without proper authorization or support may endanger the crew or obstruct professional rescue operations, and approaching wreckage can be dangerous depending on the condition of the materials and the circumstances surrounding the wreck. Thus, promptly relaying the information to authorities is the most responsible and effective action.