hypothermia, the abnormal lowering of internal body temperature. If
a boat capsizes, it will likely float on or just below the surface.
To reduce the eects of hypothermia, get in or on the boat. Try to
get as much of your body out of the water as possible. If you can’t
get in the boat, a PFD will enable you to keep your head out of the
water. This is very important because about 50 percent of body
heat loss is from the head.
It may be possible to revive a drowning victim who has been under
water for some time and shows no sign of life. Cases document
instances where victims have been resuscitated after extended
periods. Start CPR immediately and get the victim to a hospital as
quickly as possible.
Immersion suits will delay the eects of hypothermia in cold water
and are available through many retailers who specialize in sales
of marine products. The suits should be stored and maintained
according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
INFLATABLE LIFE RAFTS
An inflatable life raft can provide a survival platform for an extended
period of time. Be sure the life raft is large enough for everyone on
board when the boat operates o-shore. It should have the appro-
priate emergency equipment pack and should be professionally
serviced periodically, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Coast Guard-approved life rafts must meet a number of stringent
material and performance standards.
ANCHORING
Anchoring is done for two principal reasons: first, to stop for fishing,
swimming, lunch or an overnight stay, and secondly, to keep a boat
from running aground in bad weather or as a result of engine failure.
When preparing to anchor, bring the bow of the vessel into the wind
or current. Place the engine in neutral. When the boat comes to a
stop, slowly lower the anchor. Do not throw the anchor over as it will
tend to foul the anchor or tangle line. When the anchor line has been
let out, back up away from the anchor with the engine in idle reverse
to help set the anchor. After it is firmly set, use reference points
(landmarks) in relation to the boat to be sure that the boat is not
drifting. Check the points frequently.
2021MCOwnerManualFINAL.indd 35 8/26/20 1:51 PM
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