INTRODUCTION
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9
RENDERING ASSISTANCE
If you see a distress signal or suspect a boat is in trouble, you must assume it is
a real emergency and render assistance immediately. By law, the operator in
charge of the craft is obligated to provide assistance to any individual in dan-
ger if such assistance can be provided safely. Failure to render assistance can
result in a fine and/or imprisonment.
The 1971 Boating Safety Act grants protection to a “Good Samaritan” boater
providing good faith assistance, and absolves a boater from any civil liability aris-
ing from such assistance.
OUR ENVIRONMENT
As a boater, you already have an appreciation for nature’s beauty and the
peace of the great outdoors. It is a boater’s responsibility to protect the natural
environment by keeping waterways clean.
Foreign Species
If you trailer your boat from lake to lake, you may unknowingly introduce a for-
eign aquatic species from one lake to the next. Thoroughly clean the boat and
trailer below the water line, remove all weeds and algae, and drain the bilge
and ballast tanks, if equipped, before launching the boat in a new body of water.
WARNING
Leaking Fuel is a fire and explosion hazard. Inspect system regularly.
Examine fuel System for Leaks or Corrosion at least annually.
The spilling of fuel or oil into our waterways contaminates the environment and is
dangerous to wildlife. DO NOT discharge or dispose of fuel, oil or other chemicals
into the water; it is prohibited and you can be fined.
DO NOT overfill the fuel tank, pump contaminated bilge water or discard soiled
rags into the water.
Discharge/Disposal of Waste
Waste means all forms of garbage, plastics, recyclables, food, wood, detergents,
sewage and even fish parts in certain waters, essentially anything. Bring back
everything you take out and dispose of in an environmentally friendly manner
ashore.
Excessive Noise
Noise means engine noise, radio noise or even voices. Many bodies of water
have adopted noise limits. Music and loud conversation can carry a consider-
able distance on water, especially at night. Make sure to follow regulations and
be courteous.
Wake/Wash
Be alert for NO WAKE zones. Prior to entering a NO WAKE zone, come off plane
to the slowest steerable speed. Use caution when operating around smaller
crafts, in channels and marinas, and in congested areas.
Exhaust Emissions
Increased exhaust (hydrocarbon) emissions pollute our water and air. Keep your
engine tuned and boat hull clean for peak performance.
Paints
If your boat is kept in water where marine growth is a problem, the use of
anti-fouling paint may reduce the growth rate. Be aware of environmental
regulations that may govern your paint choice. Contact your local boating
authorities for information.
Cleaning Agents
Household cleaners should be used sparingly and not discharged into waterways.
DO NOT mix cleaners and be sure to use plenty of ventilation in enclosed areas.
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