Section 2 - On the Water
90-8M0113859 eng DECEMBER 2015 Page 31
Drain Plug and Bilge Pump
The engine compartment in your boat is a natural place for water to collect. For this reason, boats are normally equipped with a
drain plug and/or a bilge pump. It is very important to check these items on a regular basis to ensure that the water level does
not come into contact with your power package. Components on your engine will be damaged if submerged. Damage caused
by submersion is not covered by the Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty.
Protecting People in the Water
While You Are Cruising
It is very difficult for a person in the water to take quick action to avoid a boat heading in their direction, even at slow speeds.
Always slow down and exercise extreme caution any time you are boating in an area where there might be people in the water.
Whenever a boat is moving (even coasting) and the gear shift is in neutral, there is sufficient force by the water on the propeller
to cause the propeller to rotate. This neutral propeller rotation can cause serious injury.
While Boat Is Stationary
!
WARNING
A spinning propeller, a moving boat, or any solid device attached to the boat can cause serious injury or death to swimmers.
Stop the engine immediately whenever anyone in the water is near your boat.
Shift into neutral and shut off the engine before allowing people to swim or be in the water near your boat.
High‑Speed and High‑Performance Operation
If your boat is considered a high‑speed or high‑performance boat and you are unfamiliar with its operation, we recommend that
you never operate it at its high speed capability without first requesting an initial orientation and demonstration ride with your
dealer or an operator experienced with your boat. For additional information, refer to Hi‑Performance Boat Operation booklet
(90‑849250R03) from your dealer, distributor, or Mercury Marine.
Passenger Safety in Pontoon Boats and Deck Boats
Whenever the boat is in motion, observe the location of all passengers. Do not allow any passengers to stand or use seats
other than those designated for traveling faster than idle speed. A sudden reduction in boat speed, such as plunging into a
large wave or wake, a sudden throttle reduction, or a sharp change of boat direction, could throw them over the front of the
boat. Falling over the front of the boat between the two pontoons will position them to be run over.
Boats Having an Open Front Deck
No one should ever be on the deck in front of the fence while the boat is in motion. Keep all passengers behind the front fence
or enclosure.
Persons on the front deck could easily be thrown overboard or persons dangling their feet over the front edge could get their
legs caught by a wave and pulled into the water.
mc79555-1
!
WARNING
Sitting or standing in an area of the boat not designed for passengers at speeds above idle can cause serious injury or death.
Stay back from the front end of deck boats or raised platforms and remain seated while the boat is in motion.
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