Technical information

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other boats while operating your boat. Always obey the boating laws of a
given area.
FISHING: Hot fishing, such as a spawning run, always creates excitement
and usually attracts swarms of fishermen. Enjoy it, but don't get carried
away. Remember, you're a boat skipper first and a fisherman second, when
it comes to responsibilities.
When fishing boats are clustered and the fish are hitting, you may find it
difficult to follow the Rules of the Road strictly, especially since operating at
a slow trolling speed slows the boat's response to the helm. Common sense
in these situations is essential; do not try to assert your right-of-way, just
make sure you keep clear. Courtesy is also important to prevent tangled or
cut lines. Remember that a fishing line could become wrapped around your
propeller shaft and damage the engine. Have a sufficient crew aboard to
insure that the helm will always be manned. Never leave the helm
unattended when the boat is in use. Stow any fishing gear you are not using
to prevent breakage or tripping. Never anchor in a channel or tie up to a
navigation aid. Both are illegal.
SWIMMING AND DIVING: Before going over the side for swimming or scuba
diving, make sure the boat is securely anchored to prevent its being carried
away by wind or current. Turn the engine off and, if children are remaining
aboard, remove the ignition key. In fact, it is wise to keep a responsible
person aboard.
Navigation Rules require vessels restricted in ability to maneuver to display
appropriate day shapes (warnings). To meet this requirement, recreational
vessels engaged in diving activities may exhibit a rigid replica of the
international code flag "A" (blue and white) not less than one meter in
height. This requirement does not affect the use of the red and white diver's
flag which may be required by state or local law to mark the diver's location
under water.
Make sure everyone understands proper re-boarding procedures. Rig a
ladder or other means of climbing onboard unaided. The boarding ladder
should be placed as far from the outboard motor or stern drive lower unit as
practicable to avoid foot injuries in case you slip.
Avoid prolonged high-speed operation in rough or choppy water. It's like driving a
speeding car over rough, rocky roads - uncomfortable and eventually damaging to the
vehicle. The intense pounding and vibration could cause loosening or breakage of
components and can even result in stress and major damage to the hull itself.
To avoid injury from the sharp propeller, the lower unit of the outboard or stern
drive should not be used as a boarding aid. The engine must be turned off when
anyone is in the water near the stern (near the propeller) including when
passengers are boarding from or de-boarding into the water.