What is the best practice to prevent falling overboard from a small boat?

Keeping your shoulders between the gunwales is the best practice to prevent falling overboard from a small boat because it ensures that you maintain proper balance and stability while on board. The gunwales are the upper edges of a boat's sides, and staying within them helps to prevent sudden shifts in weight that could lead to losing your balance and capsizing.

This practice promotes a safer environment by lowering the center of gravity and minimizing the risk of tipping the boat. In contrast, standing up while moving, shifting your weight frequently, or moving quickly across the boat can all lead to instability and an increased risk of falling overboard, as these actions may disrupt the balance necessary for safe boat operation.