255 Owner’s Manual
3-1
255 Owner’s Manual
Section 3
Operating
Information
This section is not intended to provide complete
training on all aspects of boat operation.
We strongly recommend that all operators of this
Cobalt boat seek additional training on boat
handling and safety. Have all operators become
familiar with the handling characteristics and proper
steering and control system usage before
attempting operation and especially high-speed
operation.
The features described in this section are standard
or optional, depending on your model. Refer to
Standard Equipment
and
Optional Equipment
,
in this section, for a list of features for this model.
PRECAUTIONS
Before You Start
Become familiar with the location and operation of
all equipment. Have emergency plans in place. Be
sure to perform a safety check before operating
your boat.
Fire/Explosion
Most fires are the result of fuel and oil accumulating
in the bilge from careless fueling practices. Use the
fire extinguisher at the base of the flames using a
sweeping motion. Prudent and accurate use of the
available chemicals should contain all but the worst
fires. Verify that the fire has been extinguished. If
so, check damage and get assistance immediately.
If not, get out and swim at least 25 yards (23
meters) upwind from the boat and use the visual
distress signals to get assistance. Refer to
Section
2
,
Safety
, for additional information.
FIRST TIME OPERATION
Your safety, the safety of your passengers, and
other boaters are among your responsibilities as
operator of this boat.
Your boat must be in compliance with USCG safety
equipment regulations.
You should know how to react correctly to adverse
weather conditions, have good navigation skills,
and follow the “rules of the road” as defined by the
USCG and state, county and local regulations.
We cannot stress enough the importance of
reading your propulsion unit operator’s manuals
and following the manufacturer’s instructions for
breaking in your engine.
Before each outing you should check all safety
equipment, such as fire extinguishers, PFDs, flares,
distress flags, flashlights and engine stop switch.
They should be operable, in good condition, readily
visible and easily accessed.
A
WARNING
Avoid injury or death. Improper
operation can be extremely hazardous.
Read and understand this manual, the
propulsion unit operator’s manual and
any other accessory or components of
your boat. Be sure that you understand
all controls and operating instructions
before attempting to operate the boat.
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