Safety information3sure that weight is properly distributed ac-cording to the boat manufacturers instruc-tions. Overloading or incorrect weightdistribution can compromise the boats han-dling and lead to an accident, capsizing orswamping.EMU33772Avoid collisionsScan constantly for people, objects, and oth-er boats. Be alert for conditions that limit yourvisibility or block your vision of others.Operate defensively at safe speeds andkeep a safe distance away from people, ob-jects, and other boats. Do not follow directly behind other boats orwaterskiers. Avoid sharp turns or other maneuvers thatmake it hard for others to avoid you or un-derstand where you are going. Avoid areas with submerged objects orshallow water. Ride within your limits and avoid aggres-sive maneuvers to reduce the risk of lossof control, ejection, and collision. Take early action to avoid collisions. Re-member, boats do not have brakes, andstopping the engine or reducing throttlecan reduce the ability to steer. If you arenot sure that you can stop in time beforehitting an obstacle, apply throttle and turnin another direction.EMU33790WeatherStay informed about the weather. Checkweather forecasts before boating. Avoidboating in hazardous weather.EMU44160Accident reportingBoat operators are required by law to file aBoating Accident Report with their boatinglaw enforcement agency if their boat is in-volved in any of the following accidents:1. There is loss of life or probable loss oflife.2. There is personal injury that requiresmedical attention beyond first aid.3. There is property damage to boats orother property over a certain amount.4. There is complete loss of a boat.Contact local law enforcement personnel if areport is necessary.EMU44170Boat education and trainingFor U.S.A.Operators should take a boating safetycourse. This may be required in your state.Many of the organizations listed in the nextsection can provide information about cours-es in your area.You may also want to consider an Internet-based program for basic boater education.The Online Boating Safety Course providedby the BoatU.S. Foundation, is approved bythe National Association of State BoatingLaw Administrators (NASBLA) and recog-nized by the United States Coast Guard.Most, but not all, states accept this course tomeet their minimum requirements. While itcannot replace an in-depth course such asone offered by the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S.Power Squadron, or other organization, thisonline course does provide a general over-view of the basics in boating safety, require-ZMU06025