Table of Contents
Advertisement
On board fires involving the fuel system usually result in either an explosion
that completely destroys the boat, or the boat burning to the waterline and
self extinguishing. Deciding on abandoning the boat or staying to fight the
fire is difficult and depends on many factors. Try to formulate a fire plan in
advance to make that decision quickly and without hesitation.
Gasoline will float on top of water and can burn. If the boat is
abandoned, swim up wind, far enough to avoid fuel that may
spread over the surface of the water to avoid serious injury.
Capsizing and Swamping
A boat may capsize or swamp when least expected. Like fires, try to
formulate a plan in advance on what to do if it should happen. Keep in mind
the following guidelines:
●
Try to turn the engine OFF to prevent
damage.
If others were on board, try to locate them,
●
make sure they're conscious and that they
can swim.
●
Stay with the boat, it will
float! Climb up on the hull
and try to get assistance.
●
Don't try to swim to shore. It's usually
further than it looks.
HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS
Every waterway poses hazards that you should avoid; shallow water, tree
stumps, sand bars, etc. Ask local boaters for information and consult a
marine chart when boating on unfamiliar waters. As the operator of the
boat, you should try to avoid all hazards, known and unknown. The
following information does not contain all possible water hazards.
Boating Safety
WARNING
KC-0170
1-7
Advertisement
Table of Contents
