What should you do if you encounter a serious boating emergency?

In the event of a serious boating emergency, the best course of action is to call 911 or the nearest TWRA office. This is the correct approach because both 911 and the TWRA (Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency) can provide immediate assistance from skilled responders who are trained to handle emergencies on the water. They have the resources and expertise necessary to address a range of issues, including medical emergencies, accidents, or sinking vessels.

Timely communication with emergency services can significantly increase the chances of a positive outcome by ensuring that help is dispatched quickly. It is critical to provide clear and accurate information about your location and the nature of the emergency to facilitate a rapid response.

The other options are not advisable in a serious boating emergency. Ignoring the problem puts everyone at risk, attempting to fix the issue without proper knowledge or tools can lead to further danger, and contacting only the nearest TWRA office instead of properly involving emergency services may delay assistance that could be crucial in saving lives or preventing further damage.