Should you pronounce death on board?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only if directed by a medical professional
• D. It depends on the situation

Answer: (B)

Declaring death is a medical determination that should be made by a qualified professional. On a vessel, a nonmedical crew member should not pronounce death; instead, the priority is to call for medical help and follow onboard procedures. If a doctor or other trained clinician is aboard, they will perform the formal pronouncement. Without a medical professional present, you do not declare death yourself—you preserve the scene, note the time, and await external confirmation or the arrival of a physician or authorities. This is why the best answer is not to pronounce death on board.