PURSUIT DC / 265, Owner'S Manual

Page: 61 / 122

Operation
10-1
Section 10
DC235 / DC265
Operation
10.1 General
Before you start, become familiar with the
various component systems and their opera-
tion, and perform a “Pre-Cruise System
Check." A thorough understanding of the
component systems and their operation is
essential to operate the boat safely. This
manual and the associated manufacturers’
information have been provided to enhance
your knowledge of your boat. Read them
carefully, and also, read the book titled
"Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts - Owner's Man-
ual."
Your boat must have the necessary safety
equipment onboard and be in compliance
with the U.S. Coast Guard, local and state
safety regulations. There should be one Per-
sonal Floatation Device (PFD) for each per-
son. Non-swimmers and small children
should wear PFD's at all times. You should
know and understand the “Rules of the
Road" and have had an experienced opera-
tor brief you on the general operation of your
new boat. At least one other person should
be instructed on the proper operation of the
boat in case the operator is suddenly inca-
pacitated.
The operator is responsible for his safety
and the safety of his passengers. When
boarding or loading the boat, always step
onto the boat, never jump.
DO NOT allow passengers to sit on the seat
backs, gunwales, bows, transoms or on fish-
ing seats whenever the boat is underway.
Passengers should be seated to properly
balance the load and must not obstruct the
operator's view, particularly to the front.
Overloading and improper distribution of
weight can cause the boat to become unsta-
ble and are significant causes of accidents.
Know the weight capacity and horsepower
rating of your boat. Do not overload or over-
power your boat.
Remember, it is the operator's responsibility
to use good common sense and sound judg-
ment in loading and operating the boat.
10.2 Homeland Security
Restrictions
• Recreational boaters have a role in
keeping our waterways safe and secure.
Violators of the restrictions below can
expect a quick and severe response:
• Do not approach within 100 yards, and
slow to minimum speed within 500 yards
of any U.S. Naval vessel. If you need to
pass within 100 yards of a U.S. Naval
vessel, for safe passage you must con-
tact the U.S. Naval vessel or the Coast
Guard escort vessel on VHF-FM channel
16.
• Observe and avoid all security zones.
Avoid commercial port areas, especially
those that involve military, cruise-line or
!
WARNING
DROWNING OR LOSS OF
CONTROL HAZARD
Ejection or sudden loss of control can
cause death or serious injury from
improper use of seating. DO NOT
stand while driving above engine idle
speeds and make sure cockpit seat is
locked/secured and all passengers are
seated when boat is underway.
!
WARNING
OVERLOAD HAZARD
Overloading the boat beyond maxi-
mum load or altering the stability,
buoyancy or center-of-gravity can
result in death or serious injury. DO
NOT exceed the maximum load or
alter the center-of-gravity of the boat.
!
WARNING
SLIPPERY SURFACE HAZARD
Wet surfaces can generate slippery
conditions which can result in death
or serious injury. Use caution on wet
surfaces.