Section 1 • Safety
!WARNING
Shut engine off if an object is struck or if you run aground.
B.Skiing
! WARNING
Check for hull leaks and drive line damage, before restarting engine.
Use hand pump if bilge pumps don't remove water.
Boat very slowly, if you must proceed with a damaged drive line.
14.Water Sports
!DANGER
Your boat's propeller can kill or injure persons in the water.
Always stay away from areas designated for swimming or diving. Unless you are towing a skier, stay away from water ski areas. Recognize markers used for such areas.
When engine is running, close and lock transom door and do not permit anyone to use boarding ladder and swim platform.
A.Swimming
•Do not permit anyone to swim from a moving boat, or a boat with an engine running.
•Many localities prohibit swimming from boats except in designated areas.
•Make sure boat's engine is turned off and the stern drive is fully down before allowing people to swim anywhere near your boat. Shut the engine OFF and remove the key from the ignition switch so that nobody will accidentally start the engine while swimmers are nearby.
•Turn off engine when taking swimmers or skiers aboard or when they are entering the water. Never permit use of the transom swim platform while engine is running.
•Slow down and look for swimmers or skiers when cruising in an area where there might be persons in the water.
Skiers must wear an approved PFD.
•Anyone who water skis must know how to swim.
•Never drive the boat directly behind a water skier. At 22 knots (25 m.p.h.), it takes only 5 seconds to overtake a fallen skier who was 60 meters (200 feet) in front.
•Keep a downed skier in sight and on the operator's side of the boat when approaching the skier. Never back up to anyone in the water.
•Learn the signals to communicate with a skier. The skier is to control the boat through hand signals. (See Figure 1.9.1)
SKIING SIGNALS (FIG. 1.9.1)
Turn - Arm raised, circle with index finger extended.
Skier in Water - Extend one ski vertically out of water.
Back to Dock - Pat top of head.
Cut Motor - Draw finger across throat.
Slow Down - Thumb pointed down or palm down, move hand up and down.
H2X® | R | 1.9 |
Speed changes you. TM.