LARSON Bass - Page 58

SAFETY
SECTION
2
© 2003-2018 Ken Cook Co. 2 - 40 l Bass
Always maintain a clear vision of where you are going and be aware of what is
going on around you. Constant vigilance will go a long way toward preventing
accidents. Skiers, boarders and other water sports participants must always wear a
USCG-approved life jacket. It’s the law!
Contact with rotating propellers is one of the most dangerous hazards that occurs
from negligence of operators, passengers and bystanders. A propeller is designed
to travel in the water and rotates at a speed that can cause death if it comes into
contact with a human. Severing, deep lacerations, blood loss, trauma and exposure
to microorganisms in the water that enter the bloodstream can result in death or
serious injury.
STOP PROPELLER STRIKES by always using caution and:
• OBSERVING all warnings and keeping all safety equipment in use and in
place.
• STOPPING the engine when swimmers are near the boat and in the water.
• MAKING SURE all passengers are seated on a horizontal seat cushion
whenever the boat is in gear or moving.
• NOT ALLOWING passengers to enter the water when the engine is
running.
• USING the boat’s emergency stop switch at all times.
• MAKING SURE all operators are properly trained and qualified to operate
the boat.
• KEEPING your eyes on your path as well as the water sports participant.
• NOT ALLOWING water sports participants to be in the path of other
boaters.
• STAYING CLEAR of swimmers and other water sports participants by
maintaining visual surveillance.
• KNOWING the correct water sports hand signals.
• NOT ALLOWING children under 11 years of age to occupy the open bow
area unless accompanied by an adult.
• USING an observer during water sports activities.