Mercury TowSport Inboards, Manual

Page: 32 / 108

ON THE WATER
Page 26 90-864197020 MARCH 2002
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Know your boating area and avoid hazardous locations.
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Be alert. The operator of the boat is responsible by law to “maintain a proper lookout
by sight and hearing.” The operator must have an unobstructed view particularly to
the front. No passengers, load or fishing seats should block the operators view when
operating the boat above idle or planing transition speed. Watch out for others, the
water and your wake.
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Never drive your boat directly behind a water skier in case the skier falls. As an
example, your boat traveling at 25 MPH (40 km/h) will overtake a fallen skier who
was 61 m (200 ft) in front of you in 5 seconds.
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Watch fallen skiers. When using your boat for water skiing or similar activities,
always keep a fallen or down skier on the operator’s side of the boat while returning
to attend to the skier. The operator should always have the down skier in sight and
never back up to the skier or anyone in the water.
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Report accidents. Boat operators are required by law to file a Boating Accident
Report with their state boating law enforcement agency when their boat is involved in
certain boating accidents. A boating accident must be reported if (1) there is loss of
life or probable loss of life, (2) there is personal injury requiring medical treatment
beyond first aid, (3) there is damage to boats or other property where the damage
value exceeds $500.00 or (4) there is complete loss of the boat. Seek further
assistance from local law enforcement.
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Be Alert To Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is present in the exhaust fumes of all internal combustion engines
including the outboards, sterndrives and inboard engines that propel boats, as well as the
generators that power various boat accessories. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that is
odorless, colorless and tasteless.
Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, which should not be confused with
seasickness or intoxication, include headache, dizziness, drowsiness and nausea.
WARNING
Avoid prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide poisoning can
lead to unconsciousness, brain damage or death. Ensure that the boat, while at rest
or underway, is well ventilated.