World Cat
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EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
Unfortunately, even the safest boating practices cannot eliminate the potential of emergency situations develop-
ing. Therefore you should prepare yourself, and your crew, to handle any problems that may arise. Establish specific
plans for fires, man overboard, collision, etc., and review them with your passengers prior to departing. Planning
allows people to remain calm, and gives everyone the confidence to resolve the problem. Section 4 of the Sportfish,
Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual provides information on emergency procedures. Below is important information
which all owners should be aware.
EMERGENCY STOP SWITCH
Lanyard clips are provided on all World Cats and when used properly provide an emergency stop for the
engines should the driver fall from the helm position, or need to perform an emergency shutdown to respond to
or avoid an accident. The clip attaches the driver to the ignition panel using a cord. A pull on the cord will
release the clip from the shut-off switch on the panel and shutdown the engines. To restart the engines, simply
reinstall the clip. This should only be used to prevent or react to accidents, and the operator is solely responsi-
ble for the decision.
COMMUNICATION
If you witness an emergency or become involved in one, you should request assistance via radio communica-
tion or visual signals. Review the information in Section 4 of the Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual
for detailed information on how and when to request assistance.
RENDERING ASSISTANCE
Owners are required by law to render assistance to other boaters involved in an emergency situation such as
fire, collision, casualty, etc., as long as it does not endanger your vessel or its passengers.
REPORTING ACCIDENTS
Federal regulations require that operators involved in an accident file a written account of the situation within
48 hours. Reports should be submitted to the State Boating Law Administrator. You can obtain forms through
the USCG or local authorities (i.e. harbor patrol, sheriff or police offices). In the event that a casualty or disap-
pearance occurs as the result of an accident, you must notify the authorities immediately by phone or radio and
fill out a written statement.
WEATHER
Pay attention to weather patterns. If you find yourself in the path of a storm, seek shelter immediately. If you
cannot reach a dock, seek refuge inside the boat while the storm advances. Never get in the water, and stay
clear of metal components on your boat. If lightning strikes, it would likely pass through metal objects seeking
a ground.
TOWING
Due to an accident or loss of power, it may become necessary to tow another vessel or have your boat towed. If
you are providing assistance, never attempt to tow a boat larger than your own. Be certain to use proper lines
(ropes) and rational judgement to prevent further damage. Tow lines are under heavy strain, therefore passen-
gers should remain clear of the lines to protect themselves from injury. For more information on towing, refer-
ence page 30 of the Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual.
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