What is primary responsibility for a vessel operator assisling a boat in distress?

The primary responsibility of a vessel operator assisting a boat in distress is to ensure the safety of all individuals involved, including those on the distressed vessel and their own crew. This includes assessing the situation, providing appropriate assistance such as towing or medical aid, and communicating with relevant authorities or rescue services. Operators must also maintain situational awareness to avoid creating additional hazards during the rescue operation. Additionally, they should document the incident for reporting purposes if required.