Wave And Wake Jumping - Mercury D4.2L Manual

CD543

Wave And Wake Jumping

Operating recreational boats over waves and wakes is a natural part of boating. However, when this activity is
done with speed to force the boat hull partially or completely out of the water, certain hazards arise, particularly
when the boat re-enters the water.
The primary concern is the boat changing direction while in the midst of the jump. In such case the landing may
cause the boat to violently veer in a new direction. Such a sharp change in direction or turn can cause occupants
to be thrown out of their seats or out of the boat.
There is another less common hazardous result from allowing your boat to launch off a wave or wake. If the bow
of your boat pitches down far enough while airborne, upon water contact it may penetrate under the water surface
and "submarine" for an instant. This will bring the boat nearly to a stop in an instant and can send the occupants
flying forward. The boat may also steer sharply to one side.
Avoid serious injury or death from being thrown within or out of a boat when it lands after jumping a
wave or wake. Avoid wave or wake jumping whenever possible. Instruct all occupants that if a wake
or wave jump occurs, get low and hang on to any boat hand hold.
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WARNING