If you're undertaking a coastal or offshore passage, then creating a plan to include an unannounced Man Overboard drill at some point through the trip is a productive way of rehearsing a Man Overboard situation. The crew will be able to practice their spotting and recovery methods in a realistic way, rather than a planned exercise where people will have time to think their spotting and recovery through beforehand. Here's what you can do to make this a safe and effective exercise.