BOATING SAFETY
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Excessive Noise
Noise means engine noise, radio noise, or even yelling. Many bodies of water have
adopted noise limits. Music and loud conversation can carry a considerable dis-
tance on water, especially at night. Be sure to follow regulations and be courteous.
Speed/Wake/Wash
Be alert for NO WAKE zones. You are responsible for any damage or injury
caused by your wake/wash. Prior to entering a NO WAKE zone, come off plane
to the slowest steerable speed.
Some states and boating areas have imposed speed limits for operation of
boats, including but not limited to no-wake zones. Check local, state, country agen-
cy(ies) as to laws and regulations. The U.S. Coast Guard and local boating authori-
ties are excellent sources for this information, which include penalties for failure to
observe the requirements. 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. Consult your ATX
dealer for information.
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 reg-
ulations 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. Never mix cleaners and be sure to use plenty of ventilation in en-
closed areas. DO NOT use products which contain phosphates, chlorine, solvents,
non-biodegradable or petroleum based products. Refer to CARE AND MAINTE-
NANCE in this manual for more information.
MARPOL Treaty
The USCG enforces the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution
from ships, commonly referred to as the MARPOL Treaty (Marine Pollution).
This treaty prohibits the overboard dumping of all ship- generated plastics,
chemicals, garbage and oil.
WATERSPORT SAFETY
Skiers or riders are obligated to be aware of the same fundamental safety rules as
operators. If you are new to water skiing, wakeboarding, wakesurfing, and other
towed watersports, seek certified training before starting. You will find it especially
helpful to join a local ski club, World Wakeboard Association, and/or the USA Water
Ski, when possible.
Always remember that the majority of water skiing/wakeboarding and other
towed watersports injuries are the result of impacts with other objects. Always
look where you are going and be aware of what is going on around you.
Teak/Ski Platform/Drag Surfing
READ, UNDERSTAND and be FAMILIAR with the information contained on any warn-
ing labels or any label on equipment and adhere to the boat operation practic-
es described on them. The United States Coast Guard issued a SAFETY ALERT on
August 28, 2001 that covers some of the issues of improper use of teak boarding
platform. The SAFETY ALERT and portions of the accompanying information follow:
SAFETY ALERT from August 28, 2001
The United States Coast Guard advised boaters not to “Teak/Drag Surf.” Recent
boating fatalities revealed that carbon monoxide (CO) emitted from a vessel’s ex-
haust resulted in CO poisoning and the death of at least six teak surfers. “Teak/Drag
Surfing” places the individual in position directly exposed to the CO in the engine’s
exhaust. This may result in a loss of coherent responses and even death. In addition,
“Teak/Drag Surfing” dangerously exposes the individual to a possible propeller injury,
and since it is often done without a life jacket (PFD), it significantly increases the
probability of drowning. Therefore, the Coast Guard stresses, “Teak/Drag Surfing” is
a very dangerous activity and advises boaters not to participate in it.
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