Four Winds V475, Owner'S Manual

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Owner’s Manual Page 35 Boating Safety - Section B
NOTICE
For information on CO Detection Systems,
see American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC
Manual) Section A-24, “Carbon Monoxide
Detectors”.
Even with the best of boat design and construction
along with the utmost care in inspection, operation,
and maintenance of boat systems, hazardous levels
of CO may still be present in accommodation spaces
and exterior areas under certain conditions. Vigilant
observation of passengers for CO sickness symptoms
should be supplemented by a marine CO detection
device in the accommodation space.
A CO detector is not a gas/fuel vapor detector.
Gas/fuel vapor detectors do not monitor the
buildup of carbon monoxide in an enclosed
area. For further information on the design,
construction, and testing of boats in consider-
ation of carbon monoxide, see ABYC TH-23.
NOTICE
Detection devices shall meet the requirements
of ABYC A-24 “Carbon Monoxide Detection
Systems on Boats”.
B - 3 SAFE BOATING PRACTICES
NOTICE
YOU are responsible for your own safety, the
safety of your passengers, and the safety of
fellow boaters.
A. Drugs and Alcohol
Alcohol consumption and boating do not mix!
Operating under the influence endangers the
lives of your passengers and other boaters.
Federal laws prohibit operating a boat under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Do not use drugs or drink alcohol while operating a
boat. Like driving a car, driving a boat requires sober,
attentive care. Operating a boat while intoxicated or
under the influence of drugs is not only dangerous,
but it is also a Federal offense carrying a significant
penalty. These laws are vigorously enforced. The
use of drugs and alcohol, singly or in combination,
decreases reaction time, impedes judgement, impairs
vision, and inhibits your ability to operate a boat.
B. Safe Operation
Safe operation means that you do not misuse your
boat nor do you allow your passengers to do so.
Safe operation means using good judgement at all
times. It includes, without limitation, the following
actions:
• Observe all safety signs and warnings both
inside the boat and in the immediate boating
area.
• Become familiar with, and adhere to, the
“Rules of the Road”.
• Maintain boat speed at or below the legal
limits. Avoid excessive speed or speeds
not appropriate for operating conditions.
• Be sure at least one other passenger is
familiar with the operation and the safety
aspects of the boat in case of an emergency.
• Load the boat within the limits listed on the
capacity plate. Balance loads bow and stern
and port to starboard.
• Do not use the boat in bad weather or sea
conditions beyond the skill or experience of
the operator or the comfortable capability
of the boat or passengers.
• Make sure the passengers and gear do not
obstruct the operator’s view or impede his
ability to move.
• Do not exceed the maximum engine power
rating stated on the certification plate located
inside the boat.
C. Passenger Safety
Before getting underway, show all passengers where
emergency and safety equipment is stowed, and
explain how to use it. Everyone aboard should wear
rubber-soled shoes which resist slipping on wet
surfaces. While underway, passengers should remain
seated inside the deck rails and gates. Do not allow
passengers to drag their feet or hands in the water.