Carver 46 VOYAGER, Owner'S Manual

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B
OATING
S
AFETY
4627 9/02
S
ECTION
1
• Instruct at least one passenger onboard in the basic operation of your
boat. This person can take over if you unexpectedly become unable to
do so.
• Do not allow passengers to ride on parts of your boat other than desig-
nated seating areas.
• Ask all passengers to remain seated while the boat is in motion.
• Do not use the boarding platform or boarding ladder while either or
both of the engines are running.
• Understand and obey the “Rules of the Road.” Always maintain com-
plete control of your boat.
• Do not overload or improperly load your boat.
• Do not travel faster than conditions warrant or beyond your abilities.
• Do not operate your boat in weather or sea conditions beyond your skill
and experience.
• Do not operate your boat while under the influence of drugs and/or
alcohol.
• Do not operate your boat if your visibility is impaired.
1.2 Adverse Conditions
1.2.1 Weather
At all times, the boat operator should be aware of present weather condi-
tions and the weather forecast. Check the forecast before you begin a day of
boating. Be aware, however, that weather conditions can change rapidly. If
you have a marine radio, listen to the weather reports issued by the U.S.
Coast Guard and others. If you have a portable radio, keep it tuned to a
station broadcasting frequent weather reports. Many boating clubs fly
weather signals; learn to recognize these signals.
Storms rarely appear without advance notice. If storms are a possibility,
keep a watch on the horizon, especially to the West, for their approach.
Watch for changes in wind direction or cloud formations. There is no substi-
tute for a good understanding of weather conditions and what to do when
the weather takes a turn for the worse.
If a storm is approaching, the best course of action is to return to port. If
you are unable to do so, then prepare to weather the storm: