Cobalt Digital Inc 220, Owner'S Manual

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Skiers and/or passengers are obligated to be aware of the same safety rules as operators.
If you are new to water sports, seek certified training before starting. You will find it
especially helpful to join a ski club, World Wakeboard Association and/or the USA
Water Ski, when it is possible. Always remember the majority of water sport injuries
result from impacts with other objects. Always look where you are going and be aware
of your surroundings.
TEAK SURFING
READ, KNOW and UNDERSTAND the information on warning labels and adhere to
the boat operation practices described on them. The United States Coast Guard issued a
SAFETY ALERT on August 28, 2001 which covers some issues of improper use of the
boarding ladder/swim platform. The SAFETY ALERT and portions of the information
follow:
Tragic deaths occur from the negligence of unsafe boating and dangerous activities.
Experts say, “many of these deaths may have been caused by an invisible hazard, carbon
monoxide poisoning.” Taking the risk of swimming under a boarding platform when the
engine is running, skiing within 20 feet (6.1 meters), or “teak surfing” behind a moving
boat can be fatal. Dangerous activities which can result in a serious injury or death are
not considered water sports. Cobalt Boats does not promote unsafe boating risks or
jeopardizing any boaters safety. DO NOT use the boarding ladder/swim platform for any
other purpose than boarding the boat or preparation of entering the water, and DO NOT
use the boarding ladder/swim platform when the engine is running.
SAFETY ALERT FROM AUGUST 28, 2001:
The United States Coast Guard advised boaters not to “Teak/Drag Surf.” Recent boating
fatalities revealed carbon monoxide (CO) emitted from a vessel’s exhaust resulted in CO
poisoning and death. Do not allow persons in the vicinity of the Swim Platform (in the
water or in the boat) with the engine(s) or generator operating, while at rest or underway
at slow speed. “Teak/Drag Surfing” places the individual in position directly exposed to
the CO in the engine’s exhaust. This can result in a loss of coherent responses and even
death. In addition, “Teak/Drag Surfing” dangerously exposes the individual to a possible
propeller injury. Since “Teak/Drag Surfing” is done without a life jacket (PFD), it
significantly increases the probability of drowning. The Coast Guard stresses,
“Teak/Drag Surfing” is a very dangerous activity and advises boaters not to participate
in it.
The Coast Guard also stated that carbon monoxide is one of the most dangerous gases.
It strikes before you know you are exposed and it impairs in a way that can and too
often does lead to death. That is why it is important to the Coast Guard that in every
circumstance it should be avoided.
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