Edgewater Networks 158CS, Owner Assistance Manual

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6/Safety Equipment
6.1 Required Safety Equipment
Contact the U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Hotline at 1-800-368-5647, or 1-202-267-1070 to obtain
a pamphlet on the latest required and suggested safety equipment. The Coast Guard Auxiliary also
offers “Courtesy Examinations” to help ensure your boat is properly equipped.
The following is a list of required safety equipment to be aboard your boat. This may be modified from
time to time and it is suggested that you contact the U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Hotline at 800-
368-5647 or pick up a copy of the latest “Federal Requirements and Safety Tips of Recreational
Boats” pamphlet.
x
PPersonal Floatation Devices (PFD’s)
These must bear a tag that they have been approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and must be in
serviceable condition. They must also be of the appropriate size for the wearer, i.e. for children there
must be children’s life vests on board. Many states now require children to wear PFD’s at all times. You
should check with your state to determine the proper requirements. You should maintain at least one
Type I, II, or III PFD for each person on board, plus one throwable device, a ring or boat cushion, Type
IV.
x
Visual Distress Signals
These are now required in virtually all waters of the United States. If in doubt, please check with the
U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Hotline at 1-800-368-5647 for a specific answer.
x
Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals
These must be U.S. Coast Guard approved, be in a serviceable condition, and be readily accessible.
They each have a service life date and are not counted beyond this date. These types include both
hand held flares and aerial flares.
x
Sound Signaling Device
You must have an efficient means of making a proper sound signal in the event of distress or poor
visibility. This may be a horn, whistle, or bell.
x
Navigation Lights
These come with your EdgeWater and meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements. It is important that you
periodically check to make sure they are in working order. It is very important these be checked prior to
any cruise which will keep you on the water after dark.
x
Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is standard on all EdgeWater boats. These require regular inspection to make
certain they are ready for use. Questions may be directed to the U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety
Hotline at 1-800-368-5647, or 1-202-267-1070. You should, as part of routine boat maintenance,
check to make sure your extinguisher is still operable.
Never discharge your fire extinguisher to see if it still works. This will cause it to lose
pressure. If it is accidentally discharged or if it is used on a fire, replace it immediately.