Chaparral 267 SSX, Owner'S/Operator'S Manual

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capsized boat will stay afloat. For this reason, stay with the boat. Do
not leave the boat or try to swim to shore except under extreme
conditions. A capsized boat is easier to see than a swimmer, and
the shore may be farther away than it appears.
More often than not, boats sink while docked. Any number of factors
may contribute to these sinkings. There may have been a mechani-
cal failure such as a failed bilge pump or an electrical problem such
as a dead battery or tripped circuit breaker. Check your boat regu-
larly if it is docked for an extended period of time to make sure
everything is in order.
Hypothermia
If a person falls overboard, hypothermia may be an immediate con-
cern. Hypothermia means a person’s body loses heat to the water
faster than the body can replace it. If not rescued, the person will
become exhausted or likely drown. In general, the colder the water,
the shorter the time for survival. PFDs will increase survival time
because they provide insulation.
Water Exhaustion Expected Ti me
Temperature Unconsciousness of Survival
(°F)
32.5 Under 15 min. Under 15 to 45 min.
32.5-40 15-30 min. 30-90 min.
40-50 30-60 min. 1-3 hr
50-60 1-2 hr 1-6 hr
60-70 2-7 hr 2-40 hr
70-80 3-12 hr 3 hr-Indefinite
Over 80 Indefinite Indefinite
Collision
If a serious collision occurs, first check the persons on board for
injuries. Then inspect the boat to determine the extent of damage.
• Prepare to help the other craft unless it places your passengers
or boat in danger.
• If the bow of the other boat penetrated your boat’s hull, prepare
to plug the fracture once the boats are separated.
• Shore up the hole inside your boat with a spare life jacket or
cushion.
• While plugging the hole, shift weight to get the hole above the
water level.
• If your boat is in danger of sinking, have all persons put on their
personal flotation devices.
• If your boat has a radio, contact the U.S. Coast Guard or other
rescue authorities immediately (VHF channel 16 or 22 CB radio).
Running Aground
If you run aground check everyone for injury and inspect damage to
the boat and propeller(s). If possible, shift weight of passengers or
gear to heel the boat while reversing engine(s). If towing becomes
necessary, do not attach tow line to deck cleats. These are not
designed to take full load of the boat. Chaparral recommends using
a commercial towing service.
2-8
WARNING: When towing another boat or having your boat
towed, make sure the tow line is fastened securely to the bow or
transom towing eyes. Never attach tow line to deck cleat or
anchor windlass. Cleat or windlass may pull free from deck and
cause serious personal injury or property damage.