Edgewater Networks 158CS, Owner Assistance Manual

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7/Safe Operation
7.1 Pre-Cruise Check List
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Check provisions. Make sure you have plenty of water in the event you have a problem and are
delayed.
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Check the weather forecast. Avoid sea conditions that are beyond the experience of yourself and
your crew.
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Do you have the correct safety gear aboard and is it in good working order?
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Make sure all fire extinguishers are in good working order.
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It is advisable to carry jackets or foul weather gear in the event of adverse weather conditions.
Your EdgeWater 158CS is equipped with a maximum capacity rating plate permanently affixed to the
helm area of your boat. It will provide information regarding the maximum number of people you can
safely have aboard, the maximum amount of weight the boat can safely carry, and the maximum
horsepower your boat was designed to handle.
Do Not Overload your boat.
B Before Starting the Engine
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Determine if the trip can be safely made by checking the weather.
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Are all the proper boat and personal documents on board?
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Check operational equipment, such as running lights and horns to make sure they are on board, and
operable.
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Make sure there are enough provisions for the cruise.
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Leave a float plan with someone who can notify authorities in the event you do not return in the
allotted time.
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Double check the fuel and engine oil levels.
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Set the battery switch for the proper setting, if so equipped.
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Check the emergency stop lanyard to see if it is properly attached, and that the shift lever is in the
neutral position.
Remember the rule of thirds: 1/3 out, 1/3 back, and 1/3 in reserve.
After Starting the Engine
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Upon initial start-up, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for engine break-in
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Check to be sure there is a tell-tale water stream exiting the engine.
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Check the gauges to determine if everything is nominal.
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Check to make sure everything is secure and properly stowed away; remember the boat’s movement
is dynamic and anything that is loose will become a hazard at the worst possible time.
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Have a great time on the water
Remember that the captain is responsible for the safety of the crew and passengers and
for his/her boat’s wake damage.