Operating instructions

SAFETY INFORMATION 19
– Do not use the boat in weather or
sea conditions beyond the skill or ex-
perience of the operator or the com-
fortable capability of the boat or pas-
sengers.
– Be sure at least one other passenger
is familiar with the operation and
safety aspects of the boat in case of
an emergency.
– Make sure that passengers and
gear do not obstruct the operator's
view or ability to move.
– Do not exceed the maximum en-
gine power rating stated on the cer-
tification plate attached to the boat.
– Observe all safety signs and warn-
ings both inside the boat and in the
immediate boating area.
Passenger Safety
Before getting underway, show all
passengers where emergency and
safety equipment is stowed, and ex-
plain how to use it. Everyone aboard
should wear rubber-soled shoes which
resist slipping on wet surfaces. While
underway, passengers should remain
seated inside the deck rails. Don't al-
low passengers to drag their feet or
hands in the water. Always use hand-
holds and other safety hardware to
prevent falls. All non-swimmers, poor
swimmers, and children should wear a
PFD at all times. Federal regulations
require that children under 13 years of
age wear a PFD when the boat is un-
derway unless they are in an enclosed
cabin or below deck.
First Aid
As a boat operator, you should be fa-
miliar with basic first aid procedures
that may be needed while you are far
from help. Fish hook accidents or mi-
nor cuts and abrasions may be the
most serious mishaps on board a boat,
but you should also learn the proper
procedures and be ready to deal with
the truly serious problems like exces-
sive bleeding, hypothermia, and burns.
First aid literature and courses are avail-
able through most Red Cross chapters.
Operation By Minors
Minors should always be supervised
by an adult whenever operating a boat.
Many states have laws regarding the
minimum age and licensing require-
ments of minors. Be sure to contact
the state boating authorities for infor-
mation. Bombardier recommends a
minimum operator age of 16 years old.
Rules of the Road
As a responsible boater, you will com-
ply with the “Rules of the Road”, the
marine traffic laws enforced by the
U.S. Coast Guard. Navigating a boat is
much the same as driving an automo-
bile. Operating either one responsibly
means complying with a set of rules
intended to prevent accidents. Just as
you assume other car drivers know
what they are doing, other boaters as-
sume you know what you are doing.
Operating a craft can be compared
with driving unmarked highways and
roads. To prevent collisions or avoid
other boaters, a system of operating
rules must be followed. It's not only
common sense...it’s the law!
Check local and federal boating laws
applicable to the waterways where
you intend to use your craft. Learn the
local rules of the road. Know and un-
derstand the applicable navigation sys-
tem (such as buoys and signs).
lmo2004-004a_safety.fm Page 19 Wednesday, August 6, 2003 11:18 AM