Protecting People In The Water; While You Are Cruising; While Boat Is Stationary; High-Speed And High-Performance Boat Operation - Mercury Inboard 5.7L Manual

Protecting People In The Water

While You Are Cruising

It is very difficult for a person in the water to take quick action to avoid a boat heading in
their direction, even at slow speeds.
Always slow down and exercise extreme caution any time you are boating in an area where
there might be people in the water.
Whenever a boat is moving (even coasting) and the gear shift is in neutral, there is sufficient
force by the water on the propeller to cause the propeller to rotate. This neutral propeller
rotation can cause serious injury.

While Boat Is Stationary

Stop your engine immediately whenever anyone in the water is near your boat. Serious
injury to the person in the water is likely if contacted by a rotating propeller, a moving
boat, a moving gearcase, or any solid device rigidly attached to a moving boat or
gearcase.
Shift into neutral and shut off the engine before allowing people to swim or be in the water
near your boat.
High‑Speed And High‑Performance Boat Operation
If your boat is considered a high‑speed or high‑performance boat with which you are
unfamiliar, we recommend that you never operate it at its high speed capability without first
requesting an initial orientation and demonstration ride with your dealer or an operator
experienced with your boat. For additional information, refer to Hi‑Performance Boat
Operation booklet (90‑849250‑R2) from your dealer, distributor or Mercury Marine.

Passenger Safety In Pontoon Boats And Deck Boats

Whenever the boat is in motion, observe the location of all passengers. Do not allow any
passengers to stand or use seats other than those designated for traveling faster than idle
speed. A sudden reduction in boat speed, such as plunging into a large wave or wake, a
sudden throttle reduction, or a sharp change of boat direction, could throw them over the
front of boat. Falling over the front of the boat between the two pontoons will position them
to be run over.

Boats Having An Open Front Deck

No one should ever be on the deck in front of the fence while the boat is in motion. Keep
all passengers behind the front fence or enclosure.
90-860174050 JUNE 2005
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WARNING
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On The Water
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