Mercury Racing 500R Operation And Maintenance Manual page 24

Anchor and extra anchor line
Manual bilge pump and extra drain plugs
Drinking water
Radio
Paddle or oar
Spare propeller, thrust hubs, and an appropriate wrench
First aid kit and instructions
Waterproof storage containers
Spare operating equipment, batteries, bulbs, and fuses
Compass and map or chart of the area
Personal flotation device (one per person onboard)
Watch for signs of weather change and avoid foul weather and rough‑sea
boating.
Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
Passenger boarding.
• Stop the engine whenever passengers are boarding, unloading, or are
near the back (stern) of the boat. Shifting the drive unit into neutral is not
sufficient.
Use personal flotation devices.
• Federal law requires that there be a U.S. Coast Guard‑approved life
jacket (personal flotation device), correctly sized and readily accessible
for every person onboard, plus a throwable cushion or ring. It is strongly
advised that everyone wear a life jacket at all times while in the boat.
Prepare other boat operators.
• Instruct at least one person onboard on the basics of starting and
operating the engine and boat handling in case the driver becomes
disabled or falls overboard.
Do not overload the boat.
• Most boats are rated and certified for maximum load (weight) capacities
(refer to the boat's capacity plate). Know the boat's operating and loading
limitations. Know if the boat will float if it is full of water. When in doubt,
contact a Mercury Marine Authorized Dealer or the boat manufacturer.
Ensure that everyone in the boat is properly seated.
GENERAL INFORMATION
14
eng