Safe Boating Practices; Drugs And Alcohol; Passenger Safety; Propeller - Four winns Horizon 200 Owner's Manual

J - 7 SAFE BOATING PRACTICES
NOTICE
YOU are responsible for your own safety, the
safety of your passengers, and the safety of
fellow boaters.
A. Drugs and Alcohol
Alcohol consumption and boating do not
mix! Operating under the influence endan-
gers the lives of your passengers and other
boaters. Federal laws prohibit operating a
boat under the influence of alcohol or
drugs.
Do not use drugs or drink alcohol while operating a boat.
Like driving a car, driving a boat requires sober, atten-
tive care. Operating a boat while intoxicated or under
the influence of drugs is not only dangerous, but it is
also a Federal offense carrying a significant penalty.
These laws are vigorously enforced. The use of drugs
and alcohol, singly or in combination , decreases reac-
tion time, impedes judgement, impairs vision, and in-
hibits your ability to operate a boat.
B. Safe Operation
Safe operation means that you do not misuse your boat
nor do you allow your passengers to do so. Safe op-
eration means using good judgement at all times. It
includes, without limitation, the following actions:
• Observe all safety signs and warnings both
inside the boat and in the immediate boating
area.
• Become familiar with, and adhere to, the
"Rules of the Road".
• Maintain boat speed at or below the legal
limits. Avoid excessive speed or speeds
not appropriate for operating conditions.
• Be sure at least one other passenger is
familiar with the operation and the safety
aspects of the boat in case of an emergency.
• Load the boat within the limits listed on the
capacity plate. Balance loads bow and stern
and port to starboard.
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• Do not use the boat in bad weather or sea
conditions beyond the skill or experience of
the operator or the comfortable capability of
the boat or passengers.
• Make sure the passengers and gear do not
obstruct the operator's view or impede his
ability to move.
• Do not exceed the maximum engine power
rating stated on the certification plate located
inside the boat.
C. 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 rub-
ber-soled shoes which resist slipping on wet surfaces.
While underway, passengers should remain seated in-
side the deck rails and gates. Do not allow passengers
to drag their feet or hands in the water. Always use
handholds and other safety hardware to prevent falls.
All nonswimmers, poor swimmers and small children
should wear PFD's at all times.
D. Propeller
Personal Injury!
Do not allow anyone near a propeller, even
when the engine is off. Propeller blades can
be sharp and continue to turn even after the
engine is shut off. Do not allow anyone near
the propeller when the throttle is in neutral po-
sition. Accidently engaging the shift can result
in a serious injury or death. (See actual ladder
warning labels and helm boarding ladder warn-
ing label below.)
Never approach or use ladder when motor is
running. Severe injury or death will result from
contact with rotating propeller.
Ladder Warning Label
Shut off motor when near swimmers. Severe
injury or death will result from contact with ro-
tating propeller.
Helm Boarding Ladder Warning Label
Section J
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