Operating In Shallow Water
Shallow water presents obvious hazards. In addition to
insufficient draft, shallow means sand bars, stumps, or
other unmarked obstructions in deep water.
Other hazards in shallow water include mud, sand,
weeds and debris, which can foul your engine’s cooling
water intakes.
Know the area in which you are operating. Consult
charts and ask local boaters. If you know or suspect
shallow water, post a lookout and proceed slowly.
When beaching, be aware how tide can affect the boat.
Never leave a beached boat unattended or unanchored.
Boat will handle differently when towing a skier;
experiment carefully to learn the differences.
Skiers may start from shore or dock if boat traffic
allows. When returning, pick up skiers from water; do
not ski back to shore or dock.
Give immediate attention to fallen skier.
Approach skier in the water from helm side so operator
can keep skier in sight.
Turn off engine in gear (to prevent propeller
“windmilling”) before picking up skier.
Never back up to anyone in the water.
Swimming
Do not swim from a moving boat.
Many areas prohibit swimming from boats except in
designated areas.
Turn off engine and leave in gear (to prevent propeller
“wind milling”) while swimming.
6-12
WARNING
Collision Hazard –
Use extra caution in shallow water of
where underwater/floating objects may be present. Hitting an
object at high speed or severe angle can seriously injure people
and damage your boat.
