E
1-4
EMU00917
SAFETY
INFORMATION
8
Before mounting or operating the out-
board motor, read this entire manual.
Reading it should give you an under-
standing of the motor and its operation.
8
Before operating the boat, read any
owner’s or operator’s manuals supplied
with it and all labels. Be sure you under-
stand each item before operating.
8
Do not overpower the boat with this
outboard motor. Overpowering the
boat could result in loss of control. The
rated power of the outboard should be
equal to or less than the rated horse-
power capacity of the boat. If the rated
horsepower capacity of the boat is
unknown, consult the dealer or boat
manufacturer.
8
Do not modify the outboard.
Modifications could make the motor
unfit or unsafe to use.
8
Never operate after drinking alcohol or
taking drugs. About 50% of all boating
fatalities involve intoxication.
8
Have an approved personal flotation
device (PFD) on board for every occu-
pant. It is a good idea to wear a PFD
whenever boating. At a minimum, chil-
dren and non-swimmers should always
wear PFDs, and everyone should wear
PFDs when there are potentially haz-
ardous boating conditions.
8
Gasoline is highly flammable, and its
vapors are flammable and explosive.
Handle and store gasoline carefully.
Make sure there are no gas fumes or
leaking fuel before starting the engine.
8
This product emits exhaust gases which
contain carbon monoxide, a colorless,
odorless gas which may cause brain
damage or death when inhaled.
Symptoms include nausea, dizziness,
and drowsiness. Keep cockpit and cabin
areas well ventilated. Avoid blocking
exhaust outlets.
8
Check throttle, shift, and steering for
proper operation before starting the
engine.
8
Attach the engine stop switch lanyard
to a secure place on your clothing, or
your arm or leg while operating. If you
accidentally leave the helm, the lanyard
will pull from the switch, stopping the
engine.
8
Know the marine laws and regulations
where you will be boating - and obey
them. Refer to the “RULES OF THE
ROAD” section for basic boating rules.
8
Stay informed about the weather.
Check weather forecasts before boating.
Avoid boating in hazardous weather.
8
Tell someone where you are going:
leave a Float Plan with a responsible
person. Be sure to cancel the Float Plan
when you return.
8
Use common sense and good judgment
when boating. Know your abilities, and
be sure you understand how your boat
handles under the different boating
conditions you may encounter. Operate
within your limits, and the limits of your
boat. Always operate at safe speeds,
and keep a careful watch for obstacles
and other traffic.
8
Always watch carefully for swimmers
during the engine operation.
8
Stay away from swimming areas.
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