You board an inflatable life raft that has been hand launched from a sinking vessel. What should you do FIRST after everyone is onboard the life raft?

Correct Answer: Option A — Cut the painter.

After boarding an inflatable life raft, the painter must be cut to ensure the raft is completely detached from the sinking vessel. This prevents the raft from being dragged down if the ship sinks rapidly or being damaged by the vessel's structure or debris in the water.