Mercury 565 Manual page 35

GENERAL INFORMATION
• Transistor radio and drinking water.
Know signs of weather change and avoid foul weather and rough‑sea
boating.
Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
Know and obey all nautical rules and laws of the waterways. Boat
operators should complete a boating safety course. Courses are offered in the
U.S.A. by:
1. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
2. The Power Squadron
3. The Red Cross
4. Your state boating law enforcement agency
Direct all inquiries to the Boat U.S. Foundation information number
1‑800‑336‑BOAT (2626).
We strongly recommend that all powerboat operators attend one of these
courses.
You should also review the NMMA Sources of Waterway Information booklet. It
lists regional sources of safety, cruising and local navigation and is available at
no charge by writing to:
Sources of Waterway Information
National Marine Manufacturers Association
410 N. Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611 U.S.A.
Make sure everyone in the boat is properly seated. Do not allow anyone to
sit or ride on any part of the boat that was not intended for such use. This
includes the back of seats, gunwales, transom, bow, decks, raised fishing
seats, any rotating fishing seat; or anywhere that an unexpected acceleration,
sudden stopping, unexpected loss of boat control, or sudden boat movement
could cause a person to be thrown overboard or into the boat.
Never be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while boating (it is the
law). Alcohol or drug use impairs your judgment and greatly reduces your
ability to react quickly.
Know your boating area and avoid hazardous locations.
Prepare other boat operators. Instruct at least one other person onboard in
the basics of starting and operating the power package, and boat handling, in
case the driver becomes disabled or falls overboard.
Passenger boarding. Stop the engine whenever passengers are boarding,
unloading, or are near the back (stern) of the boat. Just shifting the power
package into neutral is not sufficient.
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