• Throw some floating object overboard immediately.
Keep your required Type IV PFD accessible at all times
for such an emergency.
• Keep the person in the water in sight at all times. Have
a passenger do nothing but watch the person. Do not
go into the water to help the victim. One person in the
water is enough trouble.
• Circle around quickly, approaching into the wind and
waves. When the person is alongside, put the engine
in neutral and throw them a Type IV PFD with a line
attached or extend a paddle or boat hook within his/her
reach.
Collision
If a serious collision occurs, you should first check the con-
dition of all passengers aboard, then inspect your boat to
determine the extent of damage.
1. Make sure all persons aboard are wearing their PFDs.
2. If you need help and your boat has a ship-to-shore
radio, first contact the U.S. Coast Guard (VHF Channel
16) or other rescue authorities immediately.
3. Prepare to assist the other vessel unless your passen-
gers and/or boat are in danger.
4. If the bow of the other boat penetrated your boat’s hull,
prepare to block the opening once the boats are sepa-
rated.
5. Shore up the hole with a spare PFD or bunk cushion
from your boat.
6. While blocking the hole, trim the boat so that the hole
is out of the water.
Fire
Most fires are caused by electrical problems or careless
fueling practices. A fire on board your boat is a serious
emergency. You must work quickly to implement safety
procedures. If a fire occurs, immediately stop the engine.
1. Make sure all persons aboard are wearing their PFDs.
2. If the fire is small, attempt to put it out with your fire
extinguisher. If the fire is in the engine compartment,
turn off the bilge blower. Do not open the engine com-
partment. This feeds oxygen to the fire and may cause
it to flare up.
3. If the fire gets out of control, execute a distress signal
and call for help if equipped with a ship-to-shore radio.
4. All persons aboard should jump overboard and swim a
safe distance away from the flames.
IMPORTANT:All persons aboard should know the location
and proper operation of the fire extinguishers.
GUIDELINES
• Use only approved marine cooking and heating systems.
•Open flames demand constant attention.
• Keep flammable materials in approved containers in a
overboard vented locker sealed from the interior of the
boat.
• Ensure ventilation systems are unobstructed.
• Remove mooring covers before starting engine.
• Check the bilge for fuel leaks.
3.19
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