GENERAL INFORMATION
21
Know signs of weather change and avoid foul weather and rough‑sea
boating.
Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
Know and obey all nautical rules and laws of the waterways. Boat
operators should complete a boating safety course. Courses are offered
in the U.S.A. by:
1. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
2. The Power Squadron
3. The Red Cross
4. Your state boating law enforcement agency
Direct all inquiries to the Boating Hotline, 1‑800‑368‑5647 or the Boat
U.S. Foundation information number 1‑800‑336‑BOAT.
We strongly recommend that all powerboat operators attend one of these
courses.
Make sure everyone in the boat is properly seated. Do not allow anyone
to sit or ride on any part of the boat that was not intended for such use.
This includes the back of seats, gunwales, transom, bow, decks, raised
fishing seats, any rotating fishing seat; or anywhere that an unexpected
acceleration, sudden stopping, unexpected loss of boat control, or
sudden boat movement could cause a person to be injured or thrown
overboard.
Never be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while boating (it is the
law). Alcohol or drug use impairs your judgment and greatly reduces your
ability to react quickly.
Know your boating area and avoid hazards.
Prepare other boat operators. Train at least one other person on board
in boat operation and handling in case the driver becomes disabled or
falls overboard.
Passenger boarding. Stop the engine whenever passengers are
boarding, unloading, or are near the back (stern) of the boat. Just shifting
the power package into neutral is not sufficient.
Be alert. The operator of the boat is responsible by law to maintain a
proper lookout by sight and hearing. The operator must have an
unobstructed view particularly to the front. No passengers, load, or fishing
seats should block the operators view when operating the boat.
Never follow behind a water skier. As an example, your boat traveling
at 40 km/h (25 MPH) will overtake a fallen skier 61 m (200 ft.) in front of
you in five seconds.
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