Capsizing
In addition to fire, a boater’s greatest concern may be with the possibility of capsiz-
ing (or overturning) the boat. A number of factors can occur that will result in a boat over-
turning (high waves, excessive wakes, bad weather, etc.) or sinking as a result of damage
such as striking an underwater object or another boat.
In the event of such an occurrence, try to turn the engine OFF. Attempt to locate
any other people who were on-board and determine whether they are injured. Unless
there is fire or release of gasoline, in most instances it is wise to remain with the boat.
Unless it has sustained sinkable damage, it will oat. Climbing on the hull will make it
easier for rescuers to locate you and others.
Running Aground or
Striking Underwater
Objects
Ascertain whether there is dam-
age to the hull. If water can be stopped
from entering the boat, cautiously return
to dock. Have the boat checked out by
your authorized MasterCraft dealer to
be certain that the hull has not been
weakened. Even if water does not intrude
initially, diculties may occur later.
If water is entering the boat after running aground or striking an underwater object,
call or signal for assistance. Abandon ship, if necessary. Do not attempt to out-run a
significant leak to shore as it can be dicult to estimate how long it will take for enough
water to intrude and sink the boat.
Hazardous Operations
There are a number of situations which can result in peril for boats and persons on-
board. Among these is boating too close to dam spillways, where turbulence and strong
currents can result in loss of control of the vessel. These areas as well as other hazard-
ous areas are usually marked. Do NOT ignore such markers.
Additionally, there may be potentially hazardous situations that can adversely af-
fect boating. These include weather conditions (addressed later in this chapter), operat-
ing in shallow water where navigational parts of the boat may be damaged, or boating in
bodies of water that include weeds and other growth that can foul the boat operations.
These ora can foul your boat engine, restrict water intake to the engine (causing over-
heating), and restrict the propellers to such an extent that it causes a vibration that can
damage the engine and drive train.
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
Federal law also requires at least one wearable Type I, II, III or Type V Personal
Flotation Device (“PFD”) for each person on-board or being towed on water skis, wake-
boards or other recreational equipment. A Type V PFD provides performance of either a
Type I, II or III PFD (as marked on its label) and must be used according to the label re-
quirements. In addition, one throwable Type IV PFD must also be on board. As the owner,
obtaining the appropriate PFDs is your responsibility, and so is determining whether
people on-board , including those who are underage, are required to wear PFDs when un-
derway. Your MasterCraft dealer can, and will be happy to, assist you with your purchase
of appropriate PFDs.
People on-board who cannot swim or who are not strong swimmers, as well as
children, should wear PFDs at all times.
Note: Requirements for coastal waters and inland waters dier. Check with the local
boating authorities for more information.
2013 MasterCraft Owners Manual • Safety Knowledge • Page 1-8
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