Sea-doo Islandia SE, Operator'S Manual

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SPECIAL SAFETY MESSAGES
Hypothermia
Hypothermia, the loss of body heat
to the water, is a significant cause of
deaths in boating accidents. After an
individual has succumbed to hypother-
mia, he or she will lose consciousness
and then drown.
PFDs can increase survival time be-
cause of the insulation they provide.
Naturally, the warmer the water, the
less insulation one will require. When
operating in cold water (below 4.4°C
(40°F)) consideration should be given
to using a coat or jacket style PFD as
they cover more of the body than the
vest style PFDs.
Some points to remember about hy-
pothermia protection:
1. While afloat in the water, do not
attempt to swim unless it is to
reach a nearby boat, fellow sur-
vivor, or a floating object on which
you can lean or climb. Unneces-
sary swimming increases the rate
of body heat loss. In cold water,
drown-proof methods that require
putting your head in the water are
not recommended.
Keep your
head out of the water. This will
greatly lessen heat loss and in-
crease your survival time.
2. Keep a positive attitude about your
survival and rescue. This will im-
prove your chances of extending
your survival time until rescue.
Your will to live does make a dif-
ference!
3. If there is more than one person in
the water, huddling is recommend-
ed while waiting to be rescued.
This action tends to reduce the rate
of heat loss and thus increase the
survival time.
4. Always wear your PFD. It won't
help you fight off the effects of hy-
pothermia if you don't have it on
when you go into the water.
Voluntary Inspections
Boating officials in many countries or
their auxiliaries offer courtesy inspec-
tions to check out your boat. They will
check for compliance with safety stan-
dards and required safety equipment.
You may voluntarily consent to one of
these inspections, and you are allowed
time to make corrections without pros-
ecution. Check with the competent
authorities for details.
Safe Boating Courses
Many countries recommend or require
a boating safety course. Check with
your local competent authorities.
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SAFETY INFORMATION
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