Mercury Marine Sport 899183001 - Manual (Page 33)

OPERATION
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• Remove any obstruction from the drain valve.
• Check the outboard for tightness on the transom.
• Know the fuel capacity and cruising range.
• Check that the lanyard stop switch for the outboard works
correctly.
• Be sure the boat is not overloaded. Do not exceed the
maximum number of passengers or load capacity. Look at the
boat capacity plate.
• Be sure there is an approved personal flotation device of
suitable size for each person aboard and readily accessible (it
is the law).
• Check that the paddles are in the boat in case of engine
trouble.
• Be sure the operator knows safe navigation, boating, and
operating procedures.
• Be sure there is a ring type life buoy or buoyant cushion
designed to be thrown to a person in the water.
• Arrange the passengers and load in the boat so the weight is
distributed evenly and everyone is seated in a proper seat or
on the floor.
• Instruct at least one passenger in the basics of boat handling
and the starting and operation of the outboard, in case the
driver becomes disabled or falls overboard.
• Before departing, tell someone where you are going and when
you expect to return.
• No alcohol or drugs. It is illegal to operate a boat while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Know the waters and area you will be boating; tides, currents,
sand bars, rocks, and other hazards.