Carver 33 SUPER SPORT, Owner'S Manual

Page: 33 / 164

3327 11/04
B
OATING
S
AFETY
S
ECTION
1
boater, you must refrain from using drugs or alcohol while operating your
boat. Operating a motorized boat while under the influence of drugs or
alcohol carries a significant penalty.
1.5.5 Distress Calls
If you have a ship-to-shore radio telephone, heed storm warnings and
answer any distress calls from other boats. The word “MAYDAY” spoken
three times is the international signal of distress. Monitor marine radio
channel 16 which is reserved for emergency and safety messages. You can
also use this channel to contact the U.S. Coast Guard or other boaters if you
have trouble. Never send a “MAYDAY” message unless there is a
serious emergency and you are in need of immediate assistance.
1.5.6 Voluntary Inspections
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliaries or state boating officials in many states
offer courtesy inspections to check your boat for compliance with safety
standards and required safety equipment. You may voluntarily consent to
one of these inspections, after which you are allowed time to make correc-
tions without prosecution. Check with the appropriate state agency or the
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary for details.
1.5.7 Boating Accidents
The operator of a vessel used for recreational purposes is required to file a
report whenever an accident results in loss of life or disappearance from a
vessel, an injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid, property
damage in excess of $200 or complete loss of the vessel.
In cases of death and injury, reports must be submitted within 48 hours. In
other cases, reports must be submitted within 10 days. Reports must be
submitted in the state where the accident occurred.
1.5.8 Boating Regulations
It is your responsibility to make sure that your boat is in compliance with
all federal, state and local regulations. Check with your local U.S. Coast
Guard office for relevant federal regulations. Your state’s Department of
Natural Resources may have some publications available which deal with
relevant state laws.
1.5.8.1 Garbage
Dumping garbage into the sea is a worldwide problem. U.S. Coast Guard
regulations prohibit dumping plastic refuse and garbage mixed with plastic
into any waters, and restrict the dumping of other forms of garbage. It is
essential that all boaters help to clean our waterways by properly disposing
of all garbage.