Owner`s manual

World Class Catamarans
1-6
EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
Unfortunately, even the safest boating practices cannot eliminate the potential of emergency
situations developing. Therefore you should prepare yourself, and your crew, to handle any
problems that may arise. Establish specific plans for fires, man overboard, collision, etc., and
review them with your passengers prior to departing. Planning allows people to remain calm,
and gives everyone the confidence to resolve the problem. Section 4 of the Sportfish, Cruisers,
Yachts Owner’s Manual provides information on emergency procedures. Below is important
information which all owners should be aware.
EMERGENCY STOP SWITCH
Lanyard clips are provided on all World Cats and when used properly provide an emer-
gency stop for the engines should the driver fall from the helm position, or need to perform
an emergency shutdown to respond to or avoid an accident. The clip attaches the driver to
the ignition panel using a cord. A pull on the cord will release the clip from the shut-off
switch on the panel and shutdown the engines. To restart the engines, simply reinstall the
clip. This should only be used to prevent or react to accidents, and the operator is solely
responsible for the decision.
COMMUNICATION
If you witness an emergency or become involved in one, you should request assistance via
radio communication or visual signals. Review the information in Section 4 of the Sport-
fish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual for detailed information on how and when to request
assistance.
RENDERING ASSISTANCE
Owners are required by law to render assistance to other boaters involved in an emergency
situation such as fire, collision, casualty, etc., as long as it does not endanger your vessel
or its passengers.
REPORTING ACCIDENTS
Federal regulations require that operators involved in an accident file a written account of
the situation within 48 hours. Reports should be submitted to the State Boating Law
Administrator. You can obtain forms through the USCG or local authorities (i.e. harbor
patrol, sheriff or police offices). In the event that a casualty or disappearance occurs as the
result of an accident, you must notify the authorities immediately by phone or radio and
fill out a written statement.
WEATHER
Pay attention to weather patterns. If you find yourself in the path of a storm, seek shelter
immediately. If you cannot reach a dock, seek refuge inside the boat while the storm
advances. Never get in the water, and stay clear of metal components on your boat. If light-
ning strikes, it would likely pass through metal objects seeking a ground.
TOWING
Due to an accident or loss of power, it may become necessary to tow another vessel or have
your boat towed. If you are providing assistance, never attempt to tow a boat larger than
your own. Be certain to use proper lines (ropes) and rational judgement to prevent further
damage. Tow lines are under heavy strain, therefore passengers should remain clear of the
lines to protect themselves from injury. For more information on towing, reference page 30
of the Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual.