SPECIAL SAFETY MESSAGES
boating accidents. After an individual
has succumbed to hypothermia, he or
she will lose consciousness and then
drown.
PFDs can increase survival time be-
cause of the insulation they provide.
Naturally, the warmer the water, the
less insulation one will require. When
operating in cold water (below 4°C
(40°F)) consideration should be given
to using a coat or jacket style PFD as
they cover more body area than the
vest style PFDs.
Some points to remember about hy-
pothermia protection:
– While afloat in the water, do not at-
tempt to swim unless it is to reach
a nearby boat, fellow survivor, or a
floating object onto which you can
lean or climb. Unnecessary swim-
ming increases the rate of body heat
loss. In cold water, drown-proof
methods that require putting your
head in the water are not recom-
mended. Keep your head out of the
water. This will greatly lessen heat
loss and increase your survival time.
– Maintain a positive attitude about
your survival and rescue. This will
improve your chances of extending
your survival time until you can be
rescued. Your will to live does make
a difference!
– If there is more than one person
in the water, huddling together is
recommended. This action tends to
reduce the rate of heat loss and thus
increase the survival time.
– Always wear your PFD. It won'thelp
you fight off the effects of hyp
other-
mia if you don't have it on when you
go into the water.
Safe Boating Courses
Many countries recommend or require
a boating safety course. C
heck with
your local competent authorities.
Check local and federal boating laws
applicable to the waterways where
you intend to use your watercraft.
Learn the local navigation rules. Know
and understand the applicable naviga-
tion system (such as buoys and signs).
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SAFETY INF
ORMATION
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