5
Never start out until rider signals he/she is ready.
Observer and rider should maintain eye contact.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning from engine exhaust may
cause injury or death. Do not sit on the boat transom or swim
platform while the engine is running. These activities may lead
to excessive CO exposure which may cause injury or death. If
you can smell engine exhaust while in the boat, do not stay
seated in that position for prolonged periods. Never “Platform
Drag” by holding onto the swim platform or be dragged directly
behind the boat. An improperly tuned engine will produce
excessive exhaust. Have your engine checked and maintained
by a mechanic. Changing boat speed or direction relative to the
wind can reduce or increase boat exhaust from accumulating
near the boat and rider. Consult your boat Owners Manual, or
t
he United States Coast Guard’s website:
www.uscgboating.org
for more information on how to help protect others and yourself
from the dangers of CO poisoning
Use caution and common sense.
Do not exceed the weight guidelines of your boat. Only use
water ballast and people for additional weight. Do not allow
passengers to hang outside the boat or sit on the gunwales
outside the normal seating area of the boat. Uneven weight
distribution or additional weight may affect the handling of the
boat. Never allow water to overflow the gunwales of your boat.
Your equipment and your tow rope:
Inspect all equipment prior to use. Check tube and attachment
point prior to each use. Do not use if damaged.
Always wear a U.S. Guard Type III (PFD) vest.
Rope should be attached to the watercraft in an approved
fashion with hardware designed for pulling. Refer to your
watercraft manual for instructions on proper tow rope
attachment.
Tow ropes stretch during use. If a rope breaks or is suddenly
released, it can snap back into the watercraft. Warn all riders
and occupants of the danger of the rope recoil.
