Operation; General; Component Systems; Safety Equipment - Four winns 248 Vista Owner's Manual

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GENERAL

Before starting the boat, become familiar with all of the
various systems and related operations. Be sure all
necessary safety equipment is on-board. Know the
"Rules of the Road". Have an experienced operator brief
you on the general operation of your new boat. Perform
a "pre-cruise systems check". This manual is a part of
your boat's equipment. Always keep it on board.
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COMPONENT SYSTEMS

Before you can really enjoy your boat, a thorough un-
derstanding of its systems and their operation is essen-
tial. This manual and the associated manufacturers in-
formation are included in the owner's packet. This in-
formation is provided to enhance your knowledge of the
boat. Read this information carefully.
After becoming familiar with the boat and its systems,
reread this manual and other material provided in the
owner's packet. Maintenance and service tips are in-
cluded to help keep the boat in like-new condition.
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SAFETY EQUIPMENT

Besides the equipment installed on the boat by
Four Winns, L.L.C., certain other equipment is required
for passenger safety. A booklet listing the Federal equip-
ment requirements is included in the owner's packet or
is available through your local U.S. Coast Guard Sta-
tion. Remember that these laws are for your protection
and are minimum requirements. Check your local and
state regulations, also. More information on safety
equipment is provided in Section B.
Items like a sea anchor, working anchor, extra dock lines,
flare pistol, a line permanently secured to your ring buoy,
etc. could at some time save your passengers lives, or
save your boat from damage.
The Coast Guard Auxiliary offers a "Courtesy Examina-
tion." This inspection will confirm the boat is equipped
with all of the necessary safety equipment.
Vista™ Owner's Manual
™

OPERATION

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PASSENGER SAFETY

You are responsible for the safety of your passengers
as well as for their behavior while aboard. Make sure:
1. Each passenger is properly instructed in Personal
Flotation Device (PFD) use and keeps one within
reach in case of emergency. All non-swimmers and
children should wear a PFD at all times when un-
derway.
2. Passengers do not sit on gunwales, open decks,
elevated pedestal seats or on seat backs when the
boat is underway. This could cause them to be
thrown overboard during a sudden maneuver.
3. At least one other person knows how to operate the
boat in case of an emergency.
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"RULES OF THE ROAD"

As in driving an automobile, there are a few rules that
must be known if safe boating operation is to be main-
tained. The Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, De-
partment of Natural Resources or your local boat club
sponsor courses in boat handling, including "rules of the
road". Such courses are strongly recommended. Books
on this subject are also available from local libraries.
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LIGHTNING

When boating, it is important to be aware of the weather
around you. When the weather changes for the worse,
DO NOT jeopardize your safety by trying to "ride out the
storm". If possible, return to safe harbor and dock your
vessel immediately.
If caught in a storm, seek shelter inside the cabin and
wait for the storm to pass. With open bow models,
suntops and campers will provide some protection, but
should not be relied on if you are able to return to shore.
Exercise care when high winds are present!
Four Winns boats are not equipped with a light-
ning protection system.
NOTICE
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