Carver 46 VOYAGER, Owner'S Manual

Page: 33 / 180

4627 9/02
B
OATING
S
AFETY
S
ECTION
1
• A maintenance log to track the type and frequency of maintenance
procedures performed on your boat and its systems. Refer to Section 7
for more information on maintaining your boat.
• An engine/fuel log, which is essential for calculating range and fuel
requirements.
• A GPS/Loran log if your boat contains this equipment.
1.5.4 Drugs and Alcohol
Drugs and alcohol adversely affect a person’s ability to make sound judg-
ments, react quickly and, in general, safely operate a boat. As a responsible
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.