Polaris 2003 MSX owner manual Vehicle Modifications, Operator Fatigue and Dehydration, Hypothermia

Models: 2003 MSX

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Operator Safety

Vehicle Modifications

Modifications to this machine could create safety hazards and reduce vehicle reliability as well as make it unsafe or illegal to operate. Do not modify this watercraft or any of its components. Any modifications to the watercraft will void your warranty.

Operator Fatigue and Dehydration

Long hours of boating with exposure to noise, vibration, sun, glare and wind can result in operator fatigue and dehydration. These conditions can affect your balance, vision, judgment and reaction time. Fatigue and dehydration can increase your risk of an accident resulting in bodily injury or death. Combining alcohol consumption with this condition greatly increases your risk of causing an accident.

Learn to recognize the early symptoms of fatigue, and allow your body to recover by taking a break from operating the watercraft. Drink plenty of non-alcoholic beverages to prevent dehydration, and wear protective riding gear to protect against exposure to weather elements.

SAFETY

Hypothermia

Your life may depend on a clear understanding of the effects of cold water on the human body. Many suspected drowning victims actually died from cold exposure (hypothermia) rather than drowning.

Hypothermia can begin in water as warm as 80° F.

(27° C). It’s a condition in which the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Violent shivering develops, which may give way to confusion and a loss of body movement. Hypothermia can result in severe injury or death in a very short time.

To avoid hypothermia:

SDress warmly.

SWear proper gear and stay as dry as possible.

SSeek a warm environment at the first sign of hypothermia (mild shivering).

If you fall into the water:

SDo not discard clothing.

SWhile wearing your life jacket, draw your knees up toward your chest and hold them there with your arms in the Heat Escape Lessening Posture (HELP).

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Polaris 2003 MSX owner manual Vehicle Modifications, Operator Fatigue and Dehydration, Hypothermia, To avoid hypothermia