WARNING
Always anchor from the bow and never anchor from the stern in strong currents. A small current will make the boat unsteady...a strong current can pull a boat anchored by the stern under water and keep it there. If your boat capsizes or becomes completely swamped, keep in mind the following guidelines: • Stay away from the propeller and try to turn off the engine to prevent injury and damage. • If others were on board, try to locate them and make sure they are conscious and can swim. • Stay with the boat. Your Alumacraft is equipped with level flotation and will not sink. • Do not try to swim to shore unless you are very close to land. It’s usually further than it looks. • If the boat is inverted, try to climb onto the bottom of the hull and KC-0170 get assistance. If you’ve struck something and your boat begins to take on water: • • • •
Try to plug the leaks with cloth or any available materials. Run the bilge pump and bale with buckets. Immediately head for the nearest port or beach the boat on the nearest shore. If the boat eventually swamps, stay with it. It will float.
HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS Every waterway poses hazards that you should avoid; shallow water, tree stumps, rocks, etc. Ask local boaters for information and consult a marine chart when boating on unfamiliar waters.
Weather
OK
! KC-0212.2
16
Getting caught in severe weather on a large body of water is dangerous. If navigating on such waters, your boat should be equipped with communications gear, a marine VHF-FM and/or HF transceiver as applicable to your operating area. Always check with the local weather stations, the U.S. Coast Guard, or Weather Service broadcasts for the latest conditions before venturing out.
