20
Chapter 2
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH!
DO NOT OPERATE THE BOAT
WITH PEOPLE IN THE WATER
ON TOP OR HOLDING ON TO
THE SWIM PLATFORM STRUCTURE.
Most boaters fi sh from time to time.
With the propulsion systems of today
it is possible to fi sh in out-of-the-way
places. When crusing, stay clear of
fi sherman. They may have lines or nets
out which might be cut or get caught in
your propeller if you come too close.
Slow down when approaching fi shing
boats. Do not return to cruising speed until the boats have
been passed. If a fi shing boat should be anchored, a large
wake could fl ip or swamp the boat, upset fi shing gear,
pull the anchor loose from the bottom or worse yet cause
someone to fall overboard.
When fi shing from your boat, never anchor in a shipping
channel or tie up to any navigational aid. These must be
kept clear of at all times.
Be sure to carry a local chart of the area to back up your
plotter and be on the lookout for shallow water and hidden
obstructions. Many times local conditions change and there
is a time lag on the plotter chip until the next revision.
Pick up a tidal chart if appropriate so you do not end up
grounded.
WATER SPORTS
Besides learning the safety precautions for safe boating,
as well as understanding and knowing required rules and
regulations, you are obligated to be particularly careful
around other water sportsman, such as scuba divers, water
skiers, wake boarders, and fi sherman.
Whenever you see a “Diver Down”
fl ag, maintain a distance of at least
100 feet on inland waters. In bays and
open waters stay 300 feet away. The
fl ag indicates a diver in the water. If
a diver is operating from your boat,
be certain to use this fl ag and post a
lookout on board to observe the diver’s
air bubbles.
SWIM PLATFORM
On integrated or extended swim platforms you should
make periodic inspections of the swim ladder and hardware
that supports the platform to ensure that all connections
and fi ttings are tight and in good condition.
Use heed when operating the boat in reverse to insure
that water does not accumulate excessively on the
platform or transom,
especially in rough seas
or strong currents. Do
not exceed the platform
recommended maximum
capacity label! Typical
label shown.
Read and understand the following warning label regarding
“teak surfi ng.”
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