Visual Distress Signals - Skier's Choice Supra Sunsport 20V Owner's Manual

2008 sunsport/launch series

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Instruction manual (92 pages)

Table Of Contents

Table of Contents

Person Overboard (continued)

• Keep person overboard on helm side so operator has

the person constantly in sight.

• Approach from downwind and move alongside into the

wind for pickup.

• When almost alongside, stop the engine in gear to

prevent dangerous propeller "windmilling."

• As part of your emergency plan, consider what to

do if you were alone and fell overboard (e.g., wear

PFD, keep signal device in PFD, attach emergency

stop switch lanyard to yourself).

Drowning

• Swim to rescue a drowning victim only as a last resort.

• Immediate resuscitation is critical! At least two people

on board should be certified in CPR.

• Keep the victim warm.

• Use care in handling. Spinal injury may exist if the

victim fell overboard.

• Signal for help.

Medical Emergency

• In an emergency, you may be far from professional

medical assistance. Be prepared. Take a first aid

course, and carry a first aid kit. Be aware of special

conditions that may affect anyone on board.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, extremely toxic

gas. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are dizzi-

ness, ears ringing, headaches, nausea and unconscious-

ness. A poisoning victim's skin often turns cherry red.

Have the victim breathe fresh air deeply. If breathing stops,

resuscitate. A victim often revives, then relapses because

organs are damaged by lack of oxygen. Seek immediate

medical attention.

Propulsion, Control or Steering Failure

• Shut off engine.

• Put out an anchor to prevent drifting.

• Determine if you can fix the problem yourself. See

engine operator's manual if engine is flooded.

• Signal for help.

Radio Communication

Radio is the boat operator's main method of receiving safety

information and summoning aid. VHF-FM radio is the prima-

ry means of short-range communication. Single sideband

radio (SSB) is used for longer range communication.

VHF-FM Channel 16 and SSB 2182 kHz are designated for

emergency use. Such situations can be categorized as:

• Emergency -

"MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY" - Used when a life or

vessel is in imminent danger.

• Urgency -

"PAN-PAN, PAN-PAN, PAN-PAN" (pronounced PAHN-

PAHN) - Used when a person or vessel is in some

jeopardy less than indicated by a Mayday call.

• Safety -

"SECURITY, SECURITY, SECURITY" (pronounced

SAY-CURE-IT-TAY) - Used for navigational safety or

weather warning.

An emergency situation will be hectic and there will not be

time to learn proper radio procedure. LEARN WHAT TO

DO BEFORE YOU NEED TO DO IT.

If you hear a distress call, stop all radio transmissions. If you

can directly assist, respond on the emergency frequency.

If you cannot assist, do not transmit on that frequency.

However, continue to monitor until it is obvious that help is

being provided.

Distress Signals

Consult your national boating law enforcement agency.