SAFETY INFORMATION 19
Safe Boating Practices
YOU are responsible for your own
safety, the safety of your passengers,
and the safety of fellow boaters.
Drugs and Alcohol
Do not use drugs or drink alcohol while
operating a boat. Like driving a car,
driving a boat requires sober, attentive
care. Operating a boat while intoxicat-
ed or under the influence of drugs is
not only dangerous, but it is also a Fed-
eral offense carrying a significant pen-
alty. These laws are vigorously en-
forced. The use of drugs and alcohol,
singly or in combination, decreases re-
action time, impedes judgment, im-
pairs vision, and inhibits your ability to
safely operate a boat.
Safe Operation
For safety reasons and proper care, al-
ways perform “Daily Pre-Operation
Checks” as specified in your Opera-
tor’s Guide before operating your boat.
Safe operation means that you do not
misuse your boat nor do you allow
your passengers to do so. Safe opera-
tion means using good judgment at all
times. It includes, without limitation,
the following actions:
– Load the boat within the limits listed
on the capacity plate. Balance loads
bow to stern and port to starboard.
– Maintain boat speed at or below the
local legal limit. Avoid excessive
speed or speeds not appropriate for
operating conditions.
– Do not use the boat in weather or
sea conditions beyond the skill or ex-
perience of the operator or the com-
fortable capability of the boat or pas-
sengers.
– Be sure at least one other passen-
ger is familiar with the operation
and safety aspects of the boat in
case of an emergency.
– Make sure that passengers and
gear do not obstruct the operator's
view or ability to move.
– Do not exceed the maximum en-
gine power rating stated on the cer-
tification plate attached to the boat.
– Observe all safety signs and warn-
ings both inside the boat and in the
immediate boating area.
WARNING
Always use the safety lanyard
when operating your boat. Keep
lanyard stop switch free from ob-
structions that could interfere with
its operation. Do not modify or re-
move lanyard stop switch or by-
pass its safety features. The prop-
er use of the lanyard stop switch
can prevent a runaway boat situa-
tion which otherwise could cause
severe personal injury or death.
WARNING
Alcohol consumption and boating
do not mix! Operating under the
influence endangers the lives of
your passengers and other boat-
ers. Federal laws prohibit operat-
ing a boat under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
lmo2005-006a_1.book Page 19 Wednesday, July 7, 2004 1:06 PM
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