Section 3 - On The Water
90-899883179 OCTOBER 2007 Page 31
Drain Plug and Bilge Pump
The engine compartment in your boat is a natural place for water to collect. For this reason,
boats are normally equipped with a drain plug and/or a bilge pump. It is very important to
check these items on a regular basis to ensure that the water level does not come into
contact with your power package. Components on your engine will be damaged if
submerged. Damage caused by submersion is not covered by the Mercury MerCruiser
Limited Warranty.
Protecting People in the Water
While You Are Cruising
It is very difficult for a person in the water to take quick action to avoid a boat heading in
their direction, even at slow speeds.
Always slow down and exercise extreme caution any time you are boating in an area where
there might be people in the water.
Whenever a boat is moving (even coasting) and the gear shift is in neutral, there is sufficient
force by the water on the propeller to cause the propeller to rotate. This neutral propeller
rotation can cause serious injury.
While Boat Is Stationary
!
WARNING
A spinning propeller, a moving boat, or any solid device attached to the boat can cause
serious injury or death to swimmers. Stop the engine immediately whenever anyone in
the water is near your boat.
Shift into neutral and shut off the engine before allowing people to swim or be in the water
near your boat.
High‑Speed and High‑Performance Operation
If your boat is considered a high‑speed or high‑performance boat with which you are
unfamiliar, we recommend that you never operate it at its high speed capability without first
requesting an initial orientation and demonstration ride with your dealer or an operator
experienced with your boat. For additional information, refer to Hi-Performance Boat
Operation booklet (90‑849250‑R2) from your dealer, distributor or Mercury Marine.
Passenger Safety in Pontoon Boats and Deck Boats
Whenever the boat is in motion, observe the location of all passengers. Do not allow any
passengers to stand or use seats other than those designated for traveling faster than idle
speed. A sudden reduction in boat speed, such as plunging into a large wave or wake, a
sudden throttle reduction, or a sharp change of boat direction, could throw them over the
front of boat. Falling over the front of the boat between the two pontoons will position them
to be run over.
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