SECTION : BOATING SAFETY
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This manual is not intended to provide complete training on all aspects of
boat operation. We strongly recommend that all operators of this boat seek
additional training on boat handling and safety. Have all operators become
familiar with the handling characteristics, and proper steering and control
system usage before attempting high speed operation.
Some states require youths 16 years of age and younger to complete a
boating safety course before operating any watercraft. Many others require
operators under the age of 18 to be licensed in small boat operation.
Boat smart from the start, take a boating safety course and get a free
vessel safety check annually for your boat. For more information, contact:
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, www.cgaux.org; United States Power
Squadrons, 1-888-FOR-USPS, www.usps.org.
The following is a list of some other agencies and organizations that offer
Water Safety, First Aid and CPR courses or information. To find boating
safety courses in your area, call your state’s local boating agency or the
USCG boating safety course line at 1-800-336-2628 (1-800-245-2628 in
Virginia).
• American Red Cross
• U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
• U.S. Power Squadrons
• State Boating Offices
• Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons
• Boat Owners Association of the United States
• National Safe Boating Council
• WSIA
• European or international organizations
Operation by Minors
If your boat will be operated by a minor, remember to have an adult present
at all times. Many states have laws regarding minimum age and licensing
requirements for minors. Contact state and local authorities for special
requirements that may apply in your area. NOTE: Some states require boat
training courses/certification.
Passenger Safety
Any time you take your boat out, make sure that there is at least one
other passenger aboard who is familiar with the operation of your boat.
Passengers should be well aware of emergency equipment and shown how
to use it. Passengers should also keep hands and feet in the boat and be
safely seated while the boat is in motion.
The operator of the boat is responsible for the safety of the passengers,
all skiers/riders as well as his/her own safety. The operator should ensure
that all passengers are properly and securely seated in appropriate seating
locations before starting and remain there whenever the boat is in motion.
Place persons and gear in a way that distributes weight evenly.
While the engine is running, and during the boat mooring, all occupants should
be properly seated. DO NOT sit on the engine box, seat backs, aft seating,
sunpad, boarding platform or gunnels. You could fall overboard and be hit by
the propeller. DO NOT allow objects, arms or legs, or any other body parts to
hang over the bow or gunnels. DO NOT stand while the boat is moving.
The operator MUST sit in the driver’s seat while the boat is moving and all
passengers should remain properly seated.
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