Chaparral 2012 Signature, Owner'S/Operator'S Manual

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6. If your boat is equipped with a ventilation system, ensure that all
blowers and hoses are operational and intact. Verify good air-
flow at the vent located on the boat.
7. Take a boating safety course and learn the correct type and use
of a fire extinguisher aboard a boat.
Each Trip
• Before starting the engine “sniff” your bilges. Getting down on your
hand and knees and using your nose is the best fuel/vapor detector.
• Operate the bilge blower for AT LEAST FOUR MINUTES before
starting an inboard or sterndrive engine. If you still smell fumes, try
to locate the source and make repairs before starting the engine.
• Make sure all passengers know where to find your fire extin-
guishers and how to operate them.
• Before refueling, close all hatches, ports and other openings;
shut off engines, motors, pumps and blowers; and DO NOT
SMOKE. Fill all portable tanks on the dock.
• After refueling, wipe up or wash off any excess or spilled fuel;
open all hatches and ports; and let the boat air out. “Sniff” your
bilges. Operate the bilge blower for AT LEAST FOUR MINUTES
before starting the engine.
Important: Do not operate your boat until the source of a fuel
leak is identified. Have a qualified service technician correct
the condition. NEVER USE A MATCH TO INSPECT FOR LEAKS.
At Least Annually:
(Performed by a qualified marine technician)
•
Replace fuel system components if any evidence of cracking,
corrosion or deterioration is found.
• Inspect fuel tanks annually. Pay particular attention to bottom
surfaces that may have contacted bilge water. Also, check to
see if any part of the tank is corroded or damaged from rubbing
and abrasion. Permanently installed fuel tanks must be vented
to the atmosphere outside the boat. Closed compartments that
contain fuel tanks and engines or non-ignition protected electri-
cal components must be ventilated.
• Be sure the fill pipe is securely mounted, grounded and located
where spilled fuel is directed overboard. Dry and cracked or soft
and mushy fuel fill hoses should be replaced immediately.
• If your boat is equipped with bilge blowers, ensure they are
working properly.
• Ensure cooking appliances on board are secured and operate
properly. Refer to the appliance owner’s manual for guidance on
inspecting for leaks in valves and connections. NEVER USE A
MATCH to inspect for leaks.
• Ensure flammable items are stowed safely and cannot contact
cooking appliance or hot engine parts.
2-12
!
WARNING
USE CAUTION WITH SKIER IN TOW
AS TOW ROPE MAY BACKLASH INTO
COCKPIT WHEN RELEASED