Section 1 • Safety
Faster - Thumb pointed up or palm up, move hand up and down.
Speed OK - Raise arm and form a circle with thumb and index finger.
Stop - Raise arm with palm vertical and facing forward.
Turn Right - Extend right arm out from body to the right.
Turn Left - Extend left arm out from body to the left.
OK After a Fall - Clasp hands together overhead.
!WARNING
If the skier suddenly releases the tow rope, it can backlash into the cockpit. Spotters who are watching the skier must be made aware of this fact and be prepared to deflect the rope by hand to avoid injury.
•Do not water ski in congested areas.
•Keep the boat and skier away from navigation markers.
•Stay well clear of other boats and skiers.
15.Emergency Situations
Prevention is the safest approach. We hope that you are never involved in an emergency situation.
If you are involved in an emergency situation, it is imperative that you know how to react, in order to protect the lives in your care.
ASSISTING OTHER BOATERS
All boaters have a legal obligation to help other boaters who are in distress, as long as rendering assistance does not endanger you, your passengers or your boat.
C.Diving
Recognize and respect diving flags. (See Figure 1.10.1) Keep at least 30 meters (100 feet) away.
Sport Divers Flag – Red flag with diagonal white stripe marks a diver in the water.
Code Alpha Flag – Blue and white pennant designates boat being used in dive operations
DIVERS FLAGS |
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(FIG. 1.10.1) | RED | BLUE | WHITE |
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| WHITE |
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SPORT DIVER'S | CODE ALPHA |
FLAG | FLAG |
In General
When engaged in water sports, be safe and courteous to others sharing the water:
•Be considerate to fishermen.
A.Medical Emergency
You may be far from professional medical help when you are boating. At least two people on board your boat should be CPR certified, and should have taken a first aid course. Equip your boat with a first aid kit.
B.Water Rescue
A person who has fallen overboard will die from hypothermia in water temperatures below 70°F if not rescued quickly. Water rescue consist of three steps: returning to the victim, making contact with the victim, and getting the victim back on board.
Returning to the Victim
•Immediately make everyone aware of the incident and keep the victim in sight.
•Slow the boat and keep pointing toward the person overboard. At night, direct the best available light source at the person.
•Throw a life preserver, even if the person is wearing a PFD. It will serve as another marker.
Making Contact
•Slow the boat and circle toward the victim.
1.10 | R | H2X® |
Speed changes you. TM.
