Malibu Boats Wakesetter 20VTX 2018, Owner'S Manual, Page: 23 / 200

BILGE PUMP(S)
Bilge pump(s) are installed in your boat to remove water that may accumulate in the bilge. Know the location of the pump(s),
where they discharge, and where switches are located. Typically there are manual switch and/or an automatic switch position(s). On
boats equipped with the Viper II system, the bilge pumps are controlled via the touch screen for manual operation. Periodically test
the operation of bilge pumps by activating the manual switch and observing the water discharge. It is best to leave the bilge pump
switches in automatic mode, so as to not allow excess water to unknowingly accumulate in the bilge of your boat. If your bilge pump
comes on too frequently or continuously, investigate the source of leaking water (check for hull damage, hose or piping leaks, missing
drain plug, exhaust system or ballast system failures, etc.), and/or return to shore. Excess water in the bilge of your boat can cause
loss of engine power, sinking, and/or capsizing.
VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNALS
All vessels used on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas, and those waters connected directly to them up to a point
where a body of water is greater than two miles wide, must be equipped with USCG approved visual distress signals. Your dealer or
local authorities can help you select appropriate visual distress signals for your area.
If you are required to carry distress signals, you must have three USCG-approved pyrotechnic devices. Be sure they are in
serviceable condition, not exceeding the expiration date and stored in a cool, dry location in a red or orange waterproof container.
Pyrotechnic signaling devices can cause fire and/or explosion, death, serious injury, and property damage if
improperly handled. Follow the pyrotechnic manufacturer’s directions.
RECOMMENDED SAFETY EQUIPMENT
As a precaution, a prudent boater will avoid potential problems on an outing by having additional
equipment on board. Normally, this equipment is dependent on the size and type of the body of water and
the length of the trip. Your dealer can assist you in acquiring this additional equipment.
We recommend the following equipment:
• First aid kit and manual
• Anchor with at least 75 feet (23 meters) of line
• Mooring lines and fenders
• Bailing device (bucket, hand pump)
• Combination paddle/boat hook
• Local charts and compass
• Day/night distress signals
• Waterproof flashlight and spare batteries
• Cellular phone
• Waterproof container for cell phone
• GPS Global Positioning System
• Binoculars
• Portable AM/FM radio with weather band
• A non-electric horn or whistle
• Extra engine oil
• Tool kit
• Spare propeller and mounting hardware
• Spare fuses
• Spare keys
• Sunglasses and sun block lotion
Malibu Owners Manual • 2018 • Safety • Page 1-10