Mercury 225 Manual page 50

GENERAL INFORMATION
Use flotation devices. Have an approved personal flotation
device of suitable size for each person aboard (it is the law) and
have it readily accessible.
Do not overload your boat. Most boats are rated and certified for
maximum load (weight) capacities (refer to your boat capacity
plate). If in doubt, contact your dealer or the boat's manufacturer.
Perform safety checks and required maintenance. Follow a
regular schedule and ensure that all repairs are properly made.
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, and 4) your
state boating law enforcement agency. Inquiries may be made to
the Boating Hotline, 1‑800‑368‑5647 or the Boat U.S. Foundation
information number 1‑800‑336‑BOAT.
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.
Prepare other boat operators. Instruct at least one other person
onboard in the basics of starting and operating the outboard, 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 outboard into neutral is not sufficient.
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