Nautique Crossover 90490 - Manual (Page 43)

1-33
Boating Safety
SAFETY ALERT From August 28, 2001:
The United States Coast Guard advised boaters not to “Teak/Drag
Surf.” Recent boating fatalities revealed that carbon monoxide
(CO) emitted from a vessel’s exhaust resulted in CO poisoning and
the death of at least six teak surfers. “Teak/Drag Surfing” places the
individual in position directly exposed to the CO in the engine’s
exhaust. This may result in a loss of coherent responses and even
death. In addition, “Teak/Drag Surfing” dangerously exposes the
individual to a possible propeller injury, and since it is done without
a life jacket (PFD), it significantly increases the probability of
drowning. Therefore, the Coast Guard stresses, “Teak/Drag
Surfing” is a very dangerous activity and advises boaters not to
participate in it.
The Coast Guard pointed out that carbon monoxide is one of the
most dangerous gases. It strikes before you know you are exposed
and it impairs in a way that can and too often does lead to death.
That is why it is so important to the Coast Guard that in every
circumstance where it can be avoided, it is.
General Watersport Precautions
• DO NOT ski or ride in shallow water, close to shore or in
water where you do not know the depth or what is beneath
the surface.
• DO NOT put your arm, head or any other part of your body
through the handle-bridle of the ski line nor wrap the line
around any part of the body at any time.
• DO NOT ski or ride at night or directly in front of other
boats.
• DO NOT jump from a boat that is moving at any speed, nor
enter or exit the water when the engine is running (RUN).
• DO NOT approach the boat if the engine is running.
• DO NOT ski or ride near swimming areas, beaches or
personal watercraft.
• DO NOT follow directly behind another boat or skier
without leaving an adequate safe distance.
• DO NOT “back up” to anyone in the water.
• DO NOT ski or ride with multiple skiers or riders with
different length ropes.
216V Sec 1_2009.qxd:Naut Air Sec 1.qxd 1/23/09 8:45 AM Page 1-33