Section 3 - On the Water
90-866938081 MAY 2009 Page 25
Safe Boating Suggestions
In order to safely enjoy the waterways, familiarize yourself with local and all other
governmental boating regulations and restrictions, and also consider the following
suggestions.
• Know and obey all nautical rules and laws of the waterways.
Cummins MerCruiser Diesel strongly recommends that all powerboat operators complete
a boating safety course. Courses are offered in the U.S.A. by the U.S. Coast Guard
Auxiliary, the Power Squadron, the Red Cross, and your state or provincial boating law
enforcement agency. Inquiries may be made to the Boating Hotline at 1‑800‑368‑5647 or
the Boat U.S. Foundation at 1‑800‑336‑BOAT.
• Perform safety checks and required maintenance. Follow a regular schedule and
ensure that all repairs are properly made.
• Check safety equipment on board. Here are some suggestions of the types of safety
equipment to carry when boating:
Approved fire extinguishers
Paddle or oar
Signal devices: flashlight, rockets or flares, flag, and whistle or horn
Transistor radio
Tools necessary for minor repairs
First aid kit and instructions
Anchor and extra anchor line
Waterproof storage containers
Manual bilge pump and extra drain plugs
Spare operating equipment, batteries, bulbs, and fuses
Drinking water
Compass and map or chart of the area
•
Watch for signs of weather change and avoid foul weather and rough-sea
boating.
•
Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Passenger boarding. Stop the engine whenever passengers are boarding,
unloading, or are near the back (stern) of the boat. Shifting the drive unit into neutral is
not sufficient.
• Use personal flotation devices. Federal law requires that there be a U. S. Coast
Guard–approved, wearable‑type life jacket (personal flotation device), correctly sized
and readily accessible for every person aboard, plus a throwable cushion or ring. We
strongly advise that everyone wear a life jacket at all times while in the boat.
• Prepare other boat operators. Instruct at least one person aboard in the basics of
starting and operating the engine and handling the boat in case the driver becomes
disabled or falls overboard.
• Do not overload your boat. Most boats are rated and certified for maximum load
(weight) capacities (refer to your boat capacity plate). Know your boat’s operating and
loading limitations. Know if your boat will float if full of water. When in doubt, contact
your authorized Cummins MerCruiser Diesel dealer/distributor or the boat
manufacturer.
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