If someone falls overboard and drifts some distance from the boat, which of the following safety steps should you follow?

Throwing a life preserver is a critical and immediate response in a man-overboard situation. It provides the person in the water with a flotation device, which can help them stay afloat while you arrange for further assistance. This action is both quick and effective, allowing you to provide support without putting yourself at unnecessary risk by jumping into the water. The life preserver can also be used to indicate the person's location to the rescue team if required.

In situations involving a person in the water, prioritizing their safety while maintaining the safety of the boat and crew is crucial. By throwing a life preserver, you give the person a means to stay above water, which can be vital until additional actions, such as calling in help or maneuvering the boat closer, can be taken. This approach also helps to prevent further accidents that could occur if someone were to jump in after them, which could complicate the rescue effort.