Malibu Boats M235 2018, Owner'S Manual

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BASIC SAFETY RULES
Make sure you understand all of the operating instructions prior to attempting to operate this boat.
Boating-related
accidents are generally caused by the operator’s failure to follow basic safety rules or written precautions. Most accidents can be
avoided if the operator is completely familiar with the boat and its operation, follows recommended practices, and is able to recognize
and avoid potentially hazardous situations.
Past accident data shows that most
fatalities
involve actions which cause falls or ejections overboard, mishaps with towed persons, propeller strikes,
collisions, and carbon monoxide exposure. Past accident data shows that most
injuries
are associated with collisions, mishaps with towed persons, falls or
ejections overboard, being struck by the propeller, and fires and explosions. These incidents are mostly caused by operator inattention, operator inexperience,
reckless operation, alcohol/drug use, excessive speed, passenger or towed person behavior, and violation of navigation rules.
Failure to observe the safety recommendations contained in this manual may result in severe personal injury or death to
you or to others.
Use caution and common sense when operating your boat. Don’t take unnecessary chances! Basic safety rules are
outlined in this section of the manual.
PRE-OPERATION CHECK LIST– BEFORE LEAVING THE DOCK
Failure to follow these precautions may result in severe injury or death to you and/or others.
The operator shall:
• Check that weather conditions are safe for boating. It is the driver’s responsibility to determine if weather or
other factors have created an unsafe boating environment. Boaters must continuously be aware of weather
conditions. Sudden storms, wind, water conditions, lightning, etc., can unexpectedly put boaters in grave
danger. Always check the local weather report before going boating.
• Check that drain plugs are securely in place.
• Check bilge pump, horn, lights, blower and other equipment to verify they are operating properly.
• Verify that the emergency cutoff switch lanyard is in proper operating condition and is properly affixed to the
driver.
• Check the operation of the steering system. Verify that the steering is operational before launching the boat. If
the boat is already in the water, verify proper steering wheel operation at low speed. Turn the steering wheel
full stop in both directions and verify proper rudder movement. Ensure that there is no binding or stiffness in
the steering wheel rotation. Binding and stiffness is an indication that the steering needs repair. Failure of the
steering cable will result in loss of control of the boat.
• Ensure that the load of persons, ballast, and equipment is within the limits stated on the USCG Maximum
Capacities Plate and is properly distributed based on instructions in this manual.
• Check that all safety equipment and life jackets, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and throwable cushions are
in good condition and suitable for your boat and passenger load.
• Inform all passengers where safety equipment is located and how to use it.
• Have at least one other passenger who is capable of operating the boat safely in case of an emergency.
GASOLINE VAPORS CAN EXPLODE. BEFORE STARTING ENGINE, OPERATE BLOWER FOR FOUR (4)
MINUTES AND CHECK ENGINE COMPARTMENT BILGE FOR GASOLINE VAPORS.
• It is very important to open the engine cover and check the engine compartment and bilge for liquid gasoline
and gasoline vapors prior to each use of your boat and after refueling. Failure to do so may result in fire or
explosion as well as serious injury or death to you and/or others.
• If you see liquid gasoline in the engine compartments/bilge or smell gasoline vapors, DO NOT attempt to start
the engine. Liquid gasoline in the bilge is an extreme fire and explosion hazard which may cause injury or death.
Find and fix the source of the leakage, remove the liquid gasoline from the bilge. Then ventilate the engine
compartment/bilge and run the blower to remove all gasoline vapors before starting the engine.
• If gasoline vapors persist after running the blower, DO NOT attempt to start the engine. Likely, there is a
gasoline leak that is creating the excessive vapor.
• Always operate blower below cruising speed and after stopping the boat.
Malibu Owners Manual • 2018 • Safety • Page 1-3