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Boating Safety
Weeds can sometimes be removed by shifting to NEUTRAL,
pausing for a moment, then shifting to REVERSE to unwind
the weeds from the propeller.
Dam Spillways
The area around dam spillways is very hazardous and conditions can change rapidly.
Keep clear of the spillways and areas below dams. Currents created by spillways can
draw in objects, including your boat.
Restricted Areas
Before boating, check with Local, State, and Federal authorities to identify restricted
areas. Because of the threat of terrorism, the U.S. Coast Guard has and will continue to
implement strict limits on watercraft near U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships and other
potential targets.
Weather/Seas
Learn and understand weather patterns and signs of change. Bad weather can cause an
uncomfortable and unsafe situation. If a storm approaches, seek a safe harbor. Check
forecasts before getting underway and continue to monitor conditions while on the
water.
Environmental Concerns
As a boater, you already appreciate 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 have the potential of unknowingly
introducing a foreign aquatic species from one lake to the next. It is important to
thoroughly clean the bottom of the boat below the water line, remove all weeds and
algae, and drain the bilge, ballast, and livewells before launching the boat in a new
body of water. Check local, state, country agencies as to laws and regulations.
Fuel/Oil Spillage
The spilling of fuel or oil into our waterways contaminates the environment and is
dangerous to wildlife. DO NOT EVER discharge or dispose of fuel, oil or other
chemicals into the water; it is prohibited and can result in fines. These are three
common, accidental types of discharge:
• During initial fueling of a nearly empty tank
• Overfilling the fuel tanks
• Pumping contaminated bilge water
Chapter 1_15_Axis.qxp_ Chapter 1 doc.qxd 6/27/14 12:12 PM Page 26
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