Scout Boats 222 Abaco, Owner'S Manual, Page: 77 / 116

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Chapter 12:
OPERATION
12.1 General
Before you start the engine on your Scout, you should have
become familiar with the various component systems and their
operation, and have performed a “Pre-Cruise System Check."
A thorough understanding of the component systems and their
operation is essential to the proper operation of the boat. This
manual and the associated manufacturers’ information is pro-
vided to enhance your knowledge of your boat. Please read
them carefully.
Your boat must have the necessary safety equipment on board
and be in compliance with the U.S. Coast Guard, local and
state safety regulations. There should be one Personal Floata-
tion Device (PFD) for each person. Nonswimmers and small
children should wear PFDs at all times. You should know and
understand the “Rules of the Road" and have had an experi-
enced operator 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
incapacitated.
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. All passengers should be properly
seated whenever the boat is operated above idle speed. Your
passengers should not be allowed to sit on the seat backs,
gunnels, bows, transoms or on fishing seats whenever the boat
is underway. The passengers should also be seated to prop-
erly 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 unstable and are significant causes of ac-
cidents. Know the weight capacity and horsepower rating of
your boat. Do not overload or overpower your boat.
You should be aware of your limitations and the limitations
of your boat in different situations or sea conditions. No boat
is indestructible, no matter how well it is constructed. Any
boat can be severely damaged if it is operated in a manner
that exceeds its design limitations. If the ride is hard on you
and your passengers, it is hard on the boat as well. Always
modify the boat speed in accordance with the sea conditions,
boat traffic and weather conditions.
Remember, it is the operator's responsibility to use good
common sense and sound judgement in loading and operat-
ing the boat.
12.2 Rules of the Road
As in driving an automobile, there are a few rules you must
know for safe boating operation. The following information
describes the basic navigation rules and action to be taken by
vessels in a crossing, meeting or overtaking situations while
operating in inland waters. These are basic examples and not
intended to teach all the rules of navigation. For further in-
formation consult the “Navigation Rules” or contact the Coast
Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, Department of Natural Re-
sources, or your local boat club. These organizations sponsor
courses in boat handling, including rules of the road. We
strongly recommend such courses. Books on this subject are
also available from your local library.
Note: Sailboats not under power, paddle boats, vessels
unable to maneuver, vessels engaged in commer-
cial fishing and other vessels without power have
the right of way over motor powered boats. You
must stay clear or pass to the stern of these ves-
sels. Sailboats under power are considered motor
boats
Crossing Situations
When two motor boats are crossing, the boat on the right has
the right of way. The boat with the right of way should main-
tain its course and speed. The other vessels should slow
down and permit it to pass. The boats should sound the ap-
propriate signals.
Meeting Head-On or Nearly-So Situations
When two motor boats are approaching each other head-on
or nearly head-on, neither boat has the right of way. Both
boats should reduce their speed and turn to the right so as to
pass port side to port side, providing enough clearance for
safe passage. The boats should sound the appropriate sig-
nals.
Overtaking Situations
When one motor boat is overtaking another motor boat, the
boat that is being passed has the right of way. The overtaking
boat must make the adjustments necessary to provide clear-
ance for a safe passage of the other vessel. The boats should
sound the appropriate signals.
The General Prudential Rule
In obeying the Rules of the Road, due regard must be given to
all dangers of navigation and collision, and to any special
circumstances, including the limitations of the vessels, which
may justify a departure from the rules that is necessary to
avoid immediate danger or a collision.