Nautique 230 - Manual (Page 33)

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Boating Safety
Capsizing and Swamping
A boat may capsize or swamp when least expected. Like fires, try to
formulate a plan in advance on what to do if it should happen.
Keep in mind the following guidelines:
• Try to turn the engine OFF to prevent damage.
• If others were on board, try to locate them, make sure they
are conscious and that they can swim.
• Stay with the boat, it will float! Climb up on the hull and try
to get assistance.
• Do not try to swim to shore. It is usually farther than it looks.
If a leak is discovered, immediately determine the cause. A collision
with an underwater object could cause the hull to develop a leak. A
loose fitting or hose clamp on a piece of equipment could cause a
leak. Try to repair the leak if possible. If a leak is threatening the
safety of you and your passengers, call or signal for assistance.
Collisions
If a collision occurs, immediately account for all passengers. Assess
the hull for damage and activate the bilge pumps to reduce any
water intake. Try to operate the boat to keep the damaged area
above water. If necessary, call or signal for assistance.
Grounding
In the event you run aground, assess the situation before
proceeding. Immediately stop any water from entering the boat.
Inspect the rudder and rudder control system, the hull, propeller
and strut for damage. Maneuver the boat to safe water only if the
hull and all operating systems are in satisfactory operating
condition. Otherwise, call or signal for assistance.
Water Rescue (Man Overboard)
Immediately react to a person who has fallen overboard. Keep the
victim constantly in your sight. Safely return to the victim as soon as
possible. Throw the person a life preserver. Turn off the engine and
help the person into the boat.
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