6D: HITTING A LOG, ROCK, OR DEBRIS ----- PLEASE DON’T!
Hitting a log is a real risk in our Northern waters because logging, and "log rafts," are such a big
part of our commerce.
If you hit a log:
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Did you put a hole in the boat? Idle the engine, then think: usually, you can tell just by where
the noise of the hit came from. Check the bilges (don't forget the lazarette area, where the
rudder posts are) after putting the engine into idle and/or neutral, if necessary.
If you did "hole" the boat, go immediately to the "If an Emergency" on the preceding pages.
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If no hole, and still idling, is the boat vibrating?
If "yes," put the engine into neutral, try accelerating it. If there is vibration or any unusual noise
(grinding or squealing) shut down one main engine and use the other engine. Proceed to the
closest safe harbor.
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If there is no vibration, you probably did no running gear damage. Congratulations! Have the
boat checked by a diver as soon as possible.
Section 6: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 6.2