Water Hazards - Centurion Ri257 Owner's Manual

Section 6
Fog Conditions
Avoid operating your boat in foggy weather, if possible. If you encounter fog
conditions, return to port immediately. Also, take the following precautions:
• Reduce speed to a safe speed or idle.
• Take bearings and log your course and speed before the fog sets in. Use of a
GPS is recommended.
• Have all occupants wear life jackets.
• Assign lookouts to the bow and stern to keep watch and listen.
• While navigating in fog, you must sound a five-second blast from your horn or
whistle once every two minutes to alert other boaters of your position.
• If you determine that it is unsafe to continue navigating your boat, quickly find
the best position to anchor. You must sound a five-second blast from your horn
or whistle once every minute while anchored to alert other boaters of your
position.
Reduced Visibility
Natural environments and inclement weather can cause reduced visibility. Storm
condition hazards can be compounded by reduced visibility while on the water.
Always use common sense and take safety precautions if you are operating your
boat in reduced visibility conditions.
Cold Weather and Cold or Frozen Water
Conditions
Avoid operating your boat in cold water or weather conditions, and never operate
in frozen or icy waters. Operating in these conditions significantly increases the
risk of serious injury or death. Boating in these conditions can lead to cold-water
immersion, shock or hypothermia. Weather conditions may hinder emergency
rescue or assistance, and cold weather poses potential problems for on-board
equipment, as well as the engine. See the Engine Operator's Manual and the
equipment manufacturer's instructions for operating in cold weather.

WATER HAZARDS

Every waterway poses hazards that you must be aware of and avoid. These
hazards include shallow water, tree stumps and sand bars. Ask local authorities
and other boaters for information and consult a marine chart when boating on
unfamiliar waters. As a boat operator, try to avoid all hazards, known and
unknown.
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