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look for the cause of the flooding. Check all hoses,
through hull fittings, seacocks and strainers. If flooding
occurs as a result of collision or grounding damage,
call for assistance and head for shore if possible.
B. Capsizing and Man Overboard
By far, the largest number of boating fatalities involve
capsizing and falling overboard accidents. By being
prepared ahead of time with an appropriate plan of
action, you can greatly lower your chances and your
passengers' chances of becoming seriously injured.
C. Capsizing
Wear PFDs or have them readily available at all times.
If your boat capsizes, and others were on board,
locate them and guide them to the safety of the hull.
Even if the boat floats in an upside-down position, stay
with it. The boat hull is much easier for rescuers to
spot than a human head sticking out of the water. DO
NOT attempt to swim ashore, it may be further than it
looks.
D. Man Overboard
Think through and follow these procedures if someone
in your boat falls overboard.
• R emember, every second counts, you must act
fast.
• M ove throttles to idle position immediately and yell
"MAN OVERBOARD. "
• T hrow some floating object overboard immedi-
ately. Keep your required Type IV PFD accessible
at all times for such an emergency.
• K eep the person in the water in sight at all times.
Have a passenger do nothing but watch the per-
son. Do not go into the water to help the victim.
One person in the water is enough trouble.
• C ircle around quickly, approaching into the wind
and waves. When the person is alongside, put the
engine in neutral and throw them a Type IV PFD
with a line attached or extend a paddle or boat
hook within his/her reach.
Prelaunch and Underway - Section T
E. Collision
If a serious collision occurs, you should first check the
condition of all passengers aboard, then inspect your
boat to determine the extent of damage.
1. Make sure all persons aboard are wearing their
PFDs.
2. If you need help and your boat has a ship-to-shore
radio, first contact the U. S. Coast Guard (VHF
Channel 16) or other rescue authorities immedi-
ately.
3. Prepare to assist the other vessel unless your pas-
sengers and/or boat are in danger.
4. If the bow of the other boat penetrated your boat's
hull, prepare to block the opening once the boats
are separated.
5. Shore up the hole with a spare PFD or bunk
cushion from your boat.
6. While blocking the hole, trim the boat so that the
hole is out of the water.
F. Fire
Most fires are caused by electrical problems or care-
less fueling practices. A fire on board your boat is a
serious emergency. You must work quickly to imple-
ment safety procedures. If a fire occurs, immediately
stop the engine.
1. Make sure all persons aboard are wearing their
PFDs.
2. I f the fire is small, attempt to put it out with your
fire extinguisher. If the fire is in the engine com-
partment, turn off the bilge blower. Do not open
the engine compartment. This feeds oxygen to
the fire and may cause it to flare up.
3. I f the fire gets out of control, execute a distress
signal and call for help if equipped with a ship-to-
shore radio.
4. All persons aboard should jump overboard and
swim a safe distance away from the flames.
IMPORTANT: All persons aboard should know the
location and proper operation of the fire extinguishers.
Owner's Manual Page 159
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