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Lightning will seek a ground when it strikes. Avoid con-
tact with metal parts such as bow rails, control handle, or
windshield.
A - 7
DRUGS AND ALCOHOL
Please keep in mind that along with the fun of boating
comes responsibility. As the owner or operator of a plea-
sure boat, you are obligated (morally and legally) to use
good judgement while underway in providing for the safety
and well-being of your passengers and other boaters
around you.
A common and flagrant violation of good judgement and
the law by mariners involves the use of alcohol or drugs.
Each year, about half of all accidents involving fatalities
involve the use of alcohol or drugs.
It is a federal offense to operate a boat while intoxicated.
Criminal penalties may include the termination of operat-
ing privileges for up to one year. Many states have passed
similar laws.
Alcohol or drugs have an inhibiting effect on the judge-
ment and reaction time of the boat operator and his/her
passengers. Heed the advice of experts and statisti-
cians...DO NOT drink or use drugs when operating a boat.
NEVER allow an obviously intoxicated person to take the
helm.
Have fun in your Four Winns® boat, but also have the
good sense to be mentally alert and physically capable
of operating the boat in a safe manner.
A - 8
PRE-CRUISE SYSTEM CHECK
Before leaving the dock, the following items should be
checked:
A. Before Starting The Engine
1. Check the weather forecast. Determine if the cruise
planned can be made safely.
2. Be sure all necessary safety equipment is on board
and operative. This includes items such as the run-
ning lights, horn, spotlight, life saving devices, etc.
378 Vista™ Owner's Manual
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3. Check the bilge water level and bilge pump opera-
tion. Check the engine and drive fluid levels. Look
for other signs of potential problems. Check for the
scent of fuel fumes.
4. Activate the Bilge Blower. Check the blower output.
Gasoline vapors can explode resulting in injury
or death. Before starting the engine, check
engine compartment bilge for gasoline or vapors.
Operate blower for four minutes, and verify blower
operation. ALWAYS run the blower when the
vessel is operating below cruising speed.
5. Ensure an adequate amount of fuel is on board.
6. Be sure you have sufficient water and other provi-
sions on board for the cruise planned.
7. Leave a written message listing details of the planned
cruise with a close friend ashore.
B. After Starting The Engine
1. Visibly check the engine to be sure there are no ap-
parent water or oil leaks.
2. Check the gauges. Make sure the oil pressure, wa-
ter temperature, voltmeter, etc. are reading normally.
3. Have a safe cruise and enjoy yourself.
Always be sure to raise the anchor and ensure
the chain stop is engaged prior to operating your
boat. Failure to raise and secure anchor before
getting underway could result in damage to boat
and even severe injury or death from a rebound-
ing anchor.
A - 9
ENGINE OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES
Notice: Additional engine information is
located in Section S.
A. Before Starting
1. Check the engine compartment for water, gas, and/
or oil leaks of any kind. Keep the bilge in a clean
condition to prevent blower and bilge pump damage,
and fire hazards.
Section A
Page 2
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