Malibu Boats Boat 2014 Owner's Manual

Malibu Boats Boat 2014 Owner's Manual Manual pdf 17 page image

1-7FiresMany boat fires involve flammable liquids such as gas or oil. Many inboard fires start inthe bilge area which at times can be filled with gas vapors. Since gas vapors cannot beseen, boat fires tend to travel very fast. If you encounter a fire on board, turn off theengine immediately. If you have a fire extinguisher on board and access to the fire, it maybe controllable. Direct the contents of the extinguisher at the base of the flames. Throwburning materials overboard if possible. Put on PFDs, if not already on, signal for helpand prepare to abandon the boat if necessary.Reporting AccidentsBoat operators are required by law to file a Boating Accident report with their stateboating law enforcement agency or local authority when their boat is involved in certainboating accidents. A boating accident must be reported if there is a loss or probable lossof life, personal injury requiring medical attention, damage exceeding $500, or there is acomplete loss of the boat. If any of these conditions arise, seek further assistance fromlocal law enforcement personnel.Hazardous ConditionsEvery waterway poses hazards that should be avoided. The following informationoutlines some of the hazards which may be encountered.WeatherLearn and understand weather patternsand signs of change. Bad weather cancause an uncomfortable and unsafesituation. If a storm approaches, seek asafe harbor.Figure 1-3. Weather HazardsDam SpillwaysThe area around dam spillways is very hazardous and conditions can change rapidly. Stayclear of the spillways and areas below dams.WeedsWeeds can generally be a threat to a boat’s engine and other components on the boat. Ifweeds wrap around the propeller, they can create vibration in the engine. They alsorestrict water intake, causing the engine to overheat.Shallow Water OperationShallow water brings on obvious hazards such as sand bars, stumps, rocks, etc. Know thearea you will be operating the boat in. Hitting objects at high speeds can cause severedamage to people and the boat. If you know you will be navigating the boat in shallowwater, post a lookout and proceed slowly.Know the minimal depth your boat can safely travel.