BOATER SAFETY

I understand that under Federal and/or State law it is a crime to operate a board while persons are sitting on the front (bow), sides (gunwales), rear (stern), or swim platform. This behavior is considered grossly negilgent operation of a boat. I understand that my passengers and I should wear a U.S. Coast Gaurd - approved life jacket at all times when boating. 

BOATER SAFETY 

I understand there is the threat of a collision and it is my responsibility to slow down, steer away and/or stop. 

BOATER SAFETY 

I understand that when I overtake another boat I should pass on the left (port) side, leave plenty of room, and yeild (give way) to the boat. If conditions require it, I may pass on the right (starboard) side. 

BOATER SAFETY

I understand that I must yield (give way) to all boats under sail.

BOATER SAFETY

I understand that five short horn blasts of a horn or whistle signal danger or need of assistance. 

BOATER SAFETY 

I understand that it is recommened that I take a safe boating course approved by NASBLA through the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, United States Power Squadtons and individual states which would help me when I rent or operate boats. 

BOATER SAFETY

I understand that there is an awareness zone that includes the front (bow), sides (gunwales), rear (stern) and swim platform, and extends 30 feet behind and around this boat.I will educate all of my passengers on the awareness zone, and I will not allow anyone to enter the awareness zone unless the boat motor is turned off, the keys are removed, and I have counted to ten to allow the propeller time to stop spinning.I will take a head count to make sure all passengers are present and accounted for before starting the motor.I understand that it is particularly dangerous to sit on the front of the platform of this boat, because a slip between the pontoons will “funnel” a passenger into the boat propeller. 

BOATER SAFETY

I understand that the motor of this boat produces Carbon Monoxide, a colorless, odorless, and lethal gas that can quickly affect people in the awareness zone. 

BOATER SAFETY

I understand that this boat has no breaks, so that stopping quickly may be difficult or impossible if I am going too fast.

BOATER SAFETY

I will not operate this boat at speeds that are unsafe for the conditions. I will obey No Wake zones and signs. 

BOATER SAFETY

I have been instructed on how to use the navigation lights and anchor lights on this boat and will display them properly if operating at night or when visibility is poor. 

BOATER SAFETY

I have been informed of the total capacity in terms of people and weight of people and gear of gear for this boat. I understand that the maximum capacities of each boat are clearly visible on the boat capacity sticker, and I will not exceed that limit. I understand that overloading this boat is unsafe and against the law. 

BOATER SAFETY

I will anchor where it is easy for other boats to see this boat (so long as the area is anchorable). I will anchor this boat only from the front (bow). 

BOATER SAFETY

I will check to make sure that the water is deep enough befor allowing head-first diving from the boat. I will instruct my passengers never to dive or jump off of a moving boat. I will make sure that I, or someone who knows how to operate the boat, remain on board whenever the boat is unanchored. 

BOATER SAFETY

I have been instructed on what to do in the case of a person overboard, collision, or other dangerous situation: stop the motor, ensure all passengers are wearing life jackets, use throwable flotation device to assist person overboard, signal for help with 5 beeps or whistle blasts, call 911 for assitance.  I understand that I need to report accidents involving damage or injury to local law enforcement, the US Coast Guard, or Florida Fish and Wildlife officers.  I understand that I need to immediately notify Salty of any accidents, damage, equipment loss, equipment malfunction, or injuries - no matter how minor. 

BOATER SAFETY

If this boat is equipped with an engine cut-off device, I will use it. 

LOCAL CONDITIONS, LAWS, AND REGULATIONS

Minimum wake / no wake" areas are strictly enforced. If you see everyone going slow, slow down, you may have missed a sign. Pay attention to manatee warning signs and avoid manatee areas or go very slow in season. Don't anchor near or under bridges - there are usually buried utility lines. Always make sure that kids are wearing life jackets at all times (and we recommend it for adults, too).