GENERAL INFORMATION
•The boat could move suddenly in a new direction. Such a sharp change in direction can cause occupants to be thrown out of their seats or out of the boat.
•A rapid reduction in speed. This will cause occupants to be thrown forward, or even out of the boat.
•Impact damage to the outboard and/or boat.
Keep in mind, the most important thing you can do to help reduce injury or impact damage during an impact is control the boat speed. Boat speed should be kept to a minimum planing speed when driving in waters known to have underwater obstacles.
After striking a submerged object, stop the engine as soon as possible and inspect it for any broken or loose parts. If damage is present or suspected, the outboard should be taken to an authorized dealer for a thorough inspection and necessary repair.
The boat should also be checked for any hull fractures, transom fractures, or water leaks.
Operating a damaged outboard could cause additional damage to other parts of the outboard, or could affect control of the boat. If continued running is necessary, do so at greatly reduced speeds.
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WARNING
Avoid serious injury or death from loss of boat control. Continued boating with major impact damage can result in sudden component failure with or without subsequent impacts. Have the power package thoroughly inspected and any necessary repairs made.
Exhaust Emissions
BE ALERT TO CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING
Carbon monoxide is present in the exhaust fumes of all internal combustion engines. This includes the outboards, sterndrives and inboard engines that propel boats, as well as the generators that power various boat accessories. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that is odorless, colorless and tasteless.
Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning which should not be confused with seasickness or intoxication, include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea.
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