Regal LS4C Owner's Manual page 106

WARNING
AVOID INJURY OR DEATH!
DO NOT USE DECK HARDWARE
INCLUDING CLEATS
FOR TOWING.
Knots
Knots are useful in docking, towing and other
emergency situations. Learning to tie knots requires
practice. As they say " Practice makes perfect".
Some of the knots used in boating are the square,
bowline, anchor bend, clove hitch, figure eight and
half hitch. There are several periodicals available that
explain various knots and how to tie them effectively.
An experienced skipper will know the basic nautical
knots and will use them when on the water. Take the
time to know the basic knots.
Figure 8 Knot
Tied To Cleat
A useful knot to learn for general docking is the
figure eight with one end reversed. By turning the
free end of the line back under, the knot can be
released without disturbing the boat. After some
practice one person can secure a vessel easily to
a dock or pier in a variety of weather conditions.
This knot normally is used to tie the bow and stern.
Then the vessel can further be fastened by tying the
spring line in the figure eight knot. Wrap it around
the cleat 2 or 3 times.
Emergencies
Always be ready to help others on the water if
possible, but do not take any unnecessary risks.
Use equipment to save a life, but do not risk a life to
save equipment. Consult earlier information in this
manual concerning accidents, etc. Also, read other
literature concerning on the water emergencies. Be
alert and prepared!
Fires
Fire aboard a vessel can spread quickly and can
cause tremendous alarm among everyone. Most
fires can be prevented by keeping the bilge free
from oil and debris. Keep all equipment stowed
and maintained in working order. Carry a backup
fire extinguisher on board. If something becomes a
possible fire hazard, remove that possibility at once.
Never use water on gasoline, oil or electrical fires.
When you dump water on an electrical fire you can
be shocked since water conducts electricity.
Follow these instructions if a fire breaks out:
A. Fit everyone aboard with a life jacket. Turn off
the ignition.
B. Try to keep the fire downwind. If the fire is to the
stern, head the bow toward the wind. If forward, put
the stern to the wind.
C. If the engine should catch fire, shut off the fuel
supply. Usually there is a fuel tank access that will
enable you can crimp the fuel feed line.
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