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particularly in rough water. In adverse weather reduce the load capacity. A
boat's capacity ratings are based upon normal conditions. In addition,
overloading is illegal under most state laws and could get you a ticket. Some
boat warranties are void if the owner exceeds the recommended capacity
rating.
BOARDING: Never jump into a
boat from the dock. And do not
board a boat with your arms
full of gear. Instead, leave the
gear on the edge of the dock,
board the boat as close to the
centerline as possible, and
begin taking the gear aboard
after you yourself are aboard.
STOWAGE: Once you, your
passengers and your gear are
aboard, it's time to stow things
away. Again, use common
sense. The necessary safety
equipment, for example, should be placed where it is readily accessible: The
fire extinguisher mounted on a bracket in the cockpit within easy reach in
case of emergency. The items you don't need immediately should be
stowed where they won't get in the way. Items like distress flares, matches
and perishable foods should be kept in waterproof containers or bags and
kept where they are least likely to get wet. Fishing tackle, water ski equip-
ment, diving gear, etc. should be kept out of the way until needed.
PASSENGER INSTRUCTIONS: You are responsible for the safety of your
passengers, as well as their behavior while aboard.
1. Wearing of PFDs: It is a U.S. Coast Guard regulation that each person on
board has available a Personal Flotation Device (PFD). It is also the
obligation of the boat owner to instruct each passenger on the proper wear-
ing of PFDs. It is strongly advised that all occupants wear these devices.
Small children and non-swimmers should wear PFDs at all times.
2. Proper Seating: The operator of the boat is responsible for the safety of
his passengers as well as his own personal safety. He should insure that he
and his passengers are securely seated in appropriate seating locations
before starting. The operator should not allow sitting on seat backs, gun-
nels, bows, transoms or on fishing seats above idle speed, or in any location
with feet dangling over the side. In many states incorrect seating is illegal.
Proper seating also correlates to proper weight distribution: have
passengers seated to balance the load.
3. Proper Visibility: The operator of the boat is responsible by law to
“maintain a proper lookout by sight (and hearing).” He must insist that he
has an unobstructed view particularly to the front. No passengers load or
