Silverton 45 convertible, Operator'S Manual, Page: 49 / 227

SAFETY-7
Vessels engaged in commercial fi shing
must give the right of way to the follow-
ing:
A vessel unable to maneuver.
A vessel whose maneuverability
is restricted.
Basic Rules of Safe Boating
Drugs and/or Alcohol and Boating DO
NOT Mix. Drugs and/or alcohol decrease
your reaction time, impair your judgement,
and inhibit your ability to safely operate
your yacht. As a responsible boater, you will
refrain from using drugs or alcohol (singly
or combined) while you are operating your
yacht. Operation of motorized vessels while
under the in
fl uence of drugs and/or alcohol
carries a severe penalty.
Always maintain your yacht and its equip-
ment in safe operating condition. Inspect
the hull, engines, safety equipment, and all
boating accessories on a regular basis.
Stow all loose items properly to prevent
injury or damage caused by heavy sea
conditions.
Be certain lifesaving and fi re extinguishing
equipment is on board. This equipment must
meet or exceed regulatory standards and it
should be noticeable, easily accessible and
in proper operating condition. Your passen-
gers should know where this equipment is
located and how to use it.
Be certain you have suf fi cient fuel on board
for your anticipated cruising requirements.
In general, anticipate using 1/3 of your fuel
supply to reach your destination and 1/3 of
your fuel supply to return. Always maintain
1/3 of your fuel supply in reserve for changes
in your plans due to unforeseen weather
conditions or other circumstances.
Use EXTREME CAUTION while fueling
your yacht. Be certain you know the capacity
of the fuel tank (s) and the amount of fuel
you consume when operating at your normal
cruising speeds. Read and have a thorough
understanding of the
Fuel System Pages
in the Systems Operation Section of this
Owner’s Manual. It contains valuable infor-
mation and warnings that, if strictly adhered
to, will enhance your yachting pleasure and
safety.
Check the weather forecast before get-
ting underway. DO NOT venture out if the
weather is, or is expected to be, threatening.
While underway, always be cognizant of
changing weather conditions by frequently
checking the local forecast. Monitor strong
winds and electrical storms closely and
head for sheltered waters or your marina
BEFORE they are encountered.
Always maintain accurate, updated charts
of your cruising area on board and refer to
them frequently. DO NOT rely on your mem-
ory of an area. All waters, particularly tidal
waters, are subject to constant changes,
such as shoaling and underwater hazards.
Always fi le a Float Plan with a responsible
person before you depart on your cruise. A
blank Float Plan is in the back of the Owner’s
Manual.
Instruct at least one other person on board
your yacht in its basic operating procedure.
This person can take over the operation of
your yacht if you unexpectedly become un-
able to do so.
DO NOT permit your passengers to ride
on parts of your yacht that are not intended