Pro-Line Boats 17 Sport 2006, 23 Sport, 2006 21 Sport Owner's Manual

2006
Owner’s Manual
17 Sport
ii

Table of Contents

Introduction
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Dealer Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Customer Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Owner’s Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Insurance and Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Safety
Carbon Monoxide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Emergency Treatment for CO Poisoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Where CO May Accumulate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
How To Protect Others and Yourself . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Flooding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Hazardous Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Passenger Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Rules of the Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Alcohol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Controls
Throttle & Shift Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Ignition – Binnacle, Fwd, Neutral & Reverse Gear Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Key Switch Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Lanyard Stop Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Shift / Throttle / Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Steering – No Feedback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Power Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Systems and Accessories
Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Switch and Breaker Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Lighting Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Navigation Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Anchor/All Around Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Page
iii
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Instrumentation / Gauges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Sea Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Baitwell Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Bilge Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Fuel/Oil Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Fuel Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Vented Fuel Fill Fitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Fuel Sender & Fuel Pick Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Fuel Water Separator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Primer Bulb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Oil Tank and Oil Fill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Fuel / Oil Leaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Seating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Windshield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Storage and Hatches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Hatches and Latches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Cleats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Bow Rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Gunwale Trim / Rubrail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Grab Rails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Half Dive Platform w/Ladder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Cockpit / Deck Drains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Drain Plug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Thru Hull Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Bimini Top (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Rod Holder Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Vinyl Upholstery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Operation & Performance
Trim / Tilt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Propellers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Before Starting the Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Starting the Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
After Starting the Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Fueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Before Fueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
While Fueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
After Fueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Trailering and Launching
Selecting a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Check Before You Go Out On The Highway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Backing A Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Pre-Launching Preparations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Page
iv
Launching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Retrieval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Service and Care
Fiberglass and Gelcoat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Epoxy Barrier Coat and Bottom Paint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Graphics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Gunwale Trim/Rubrail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Fuel Water Separator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Aluminum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Stainless Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Corrosion Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Windshield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Bimini Top (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Canvas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Vinyl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Exterior Vinyl – Upholstered Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Winterizing and Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Resealing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Additional Cleaning and Maintenance Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Appendix
Helpful Check Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Each Time You Go On A Boat Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Once A Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Once A Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Boat Identification Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Trouble Shooting Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Wiring Diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Page
While we endeavor to be as accurate as possible, certain changes in standard equipment, options and the like may have occurred which would not be included in the Owner’s Manual. All weights and fuel capacities are estimates and could/will vary with each vessel and with each application. In all cases, consult your local Pro-Line dealer for the most current information.
v

Introduction

Congratulations on the purchase of your new Pro-Line Boats 17 Sport sport fishing boat. Welcome into the proud family of satisfied Pro-Line owners. Every expedition lets you enjoy the outstanding features designed into every boat we construct. Your new Pro-Line is more than just a boat, it's a whole new lifestyle.
Pro-Line's commitment to the needs and wishes of the sport fishing family has resulted in a superior fishing craft providing you with comfort, performance, security, and outstanding fishability. All of our boats comply with U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) safety regulations and are designed and crafted in accordance with the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) standards, and the Common European directive (CE).
This manual (to be kept onboard your Pro-Line) is designed to provide you with information necessary for the safe, efficient operation and care of your new Pro-Line. Take the time now to carefully review the owner’s manual and the additional information in your owner’s package to maximize your enjoyment and safety as well as familiarize yourself with your new boat.
We have prepared this manual to help you fully enjoy each voyage while operating your boat safely. While the information in the manual cannot and does not cover every boating situation, we urge you to read this manual carefully and familiarize yourself with the boat before using it. If a specific method or procedure is not recommended, you must make sure that whatever action you take is safe for you, your passengers and others on the water. Always use common sense when boating.

Specifications

Length Overall (LOA) 17’ 4” Cockpit Area 50 sq. ft. Beam 7’ 8” Cockpit Depth 18” Draft (Hull) 12” Maximum Horsepower 115 hp Deadrise Weight w/Bimini Top 7’ 3” Hull – w/o Engines 1,700 lbs. Fuel Capacity 40 gallons Trailerable 2,400 lbs. Baitwell Capacity 12 gallons

Dealer Responsibilities

Your dealer's responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Pre-delivery verification of proper rigging and operation. Deliver the boat in water ready condition unless you and your dealer have agreed upon other arrangements.
Complete the pre-delivery checklist with the customer at the time of delivery.
Provide adequate orientation in the general operation of your Pro-Line including an
explanation of the specific safety considerations regarding the use of the systems and components.
Provide an explanation of the owner’s package and literature, including the warranty registration cards for the vessel, engines and all of the separately warranted equipment and accessories.
Discuss the terms of all warranties and emphasize the importance of registering each warranty with the specific manufacturers.
Bridge Clearance 4’ 9”
19
Repair any damages that may have occurred to the boat while the boat has been in the dealer’s possession.
Provide service to Pro-Line boat owners within the locality of the dealership.
Explain local and out of area service procedures during and after the warranty periods.

Customer Responsibilities

Review and sign the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) report for the boat and motors with your dealer to ensure that your boat is in top condition when you take delivery.
Examine the boat at time of delivery to insure that all systems and components are functioning safely and properly. Report any outstanding issues (i.e., scratches, missing items, etc.) to your dealer before or during the delivery of the boat.
Read all literature and instructions to ensure proper usage and operation of the equipment as well as how to use and maintain all equipment as directed.
Read and understand the limited warranty. Sign the warranty registration card and mail it to Pro-Line Boats.
Contact your local Pro-Line dealer for assistance with any warrantable repairs.
Transportation of your boat to and from your dealer or repair facility for warrantable
repairs.
Schedule your 20-hour boat and engine check up with your dealer.
Know your boat and the rules of the road before you use your boat.
Be proficient in boat handling and safety. This manual is not intended to provide
complete training on all aspects of general boat operations. We at Pro-Line urge all boat owners and operators to attend a boating safety course before operating a boat.
Owner’s Package
Each Pro-Line boat comes with an Owner’s Package that contains this Owner’s Manual along with materials supplied by various manufacturers whose products have been installed on your boat. Manufacturers of certain products (i.e., Stereo, Engines, Electronics, etc.) provide their own limited warranty and owner’s manuals. While we have endeavored to be as accurate as possible in this manual, if you should notice a discrepancy between the information in this manual and that of the individual supplier’s manual, always follow the instructions in the supplier’s manual.
Make sure that you complete the individual warranty cards for these products and forward them on to the respective manufacturers to register for your warranty with them. Retain all materials in your Pro-Line Owner’s Package for easy reference.
Insurance and Registration
As the owner of the boat, you are legally responsible for all liabilities of operation. Secure insurance protection with a reputable insurance company through your local insurance agent.
Learn about and operate your boat in accordance with local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and registration requirements.
2

Capacity Information

In accordance with the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), all boats 26 feet in length or less are required to display a capacity plate. Your 17 Sport is rated for the following capacities.
Maximum capacity of persons may not exceed 5 passengers. The combined weight of those passengers may not exceed a total combined weight of 715 pounds.
Total weight including passengers, motor and gear may not exceed 1,250 pounds.
These capacity standards are based on Standards and Recommended Practices for Small Craft published by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).

Warranty

The Pro-Line Boats Limited Warranty is attached to the warranty card. After signing the warranty card, your dealer will provide you with your copy of the warranty and mail the warranty card to Pro-Line Boats, Inc. A copy of the Pro-Line Boats Limited Warranty is also included in this chapter.
The Pro-Line Boats Limited Warranty extends only to parts that were factory installed. Dealer installed items are the responsibility of the dealer. All warrantable repairs are to be completed by an authorized Pro-Line dealer. Your dealer should be able to assist you with any service or warranty related issues.
If for any reason you are dissatisfied with the services performed by your dealer, we suggest that you discuss the matter with the service manager. The service manager is responsible for the quality of service being performed and has a direct interest in resolving your issues to your satisfaction. If the matter is complicated and cannot be resolved to your satisfaction by the service manager, we suggest that you talk to the general manager or owner. In most cases a compromise can be reached.
If the matter cannot be resolved by the dealership to your satisfaction, contact the Pro-Line Boats Customer Service Department by calling 352-795-4111 or by writing to:
Pro-Line Boats, Customer Service Dept.
PO Box 1348
Crystal River, FL 34423-1348
FAX: 352-795-9373
So that your dealer and we can provide you with the best possible service, please have the following information available when calling or writing:
HIN (Hull Identification Number) Selling dealer’s name and location
3
Servicing dealer (if different from selling dealer) Nature of problem Names of dealership personnel involved with the situation Record of service performed and approximate dates
When contacting Pro-Line Boats, please keep in mind that your issue will most likely be resolved at the dealership, using their facilities, equipment, personnel and/or sublet repair facilities.
Note: There are items that are not covered limited to the following:
Incidental and consequential damages (i.e., storage charges, telephone or rental charges of any type, inconvenience or loss of time or income).
Damage caused by neglect, lack of maintenance, accident, abnormal operation, improper installation or service.
Haul-out, launch and towing charges.
Transportation charges, service call charges and/or travel time to and from a repair
facility, customer’s home or marina.
Service requested by customer other than that which is necessary to satisfy the warranty obligation.
Oils, lubricants or fluids used in normal maintenance.
Air freight, next-day or second-day air, or any special delivery fees unless pre-approved.
Gelcoat cracking, chalking, crazing, discoloration, yellowing or blistering.
Hull blisters that form below the water line: Osmosis blistering is not covered by our
limited warranty. The phenomenon of osmotic blistering is known to occur in salt water, brackish water and/or fresh water. Any boat left in the water for any period of time is susceptible. Most marine bottom paint manufacturers offer coatings that help protect the hull against osmosis blistering. We highly recommend that you add a protective coating to your hull. Find out which type of bottom paint is recommended for your area and have an epoxy barrier coat and bottom paint applied by a professional.
Parts not installed by the factory
The Ten Year Limited Hull Structural Warranty is transferable to subsequent owners for a nominal fee. Please contact your dealer or Pro-Line Boats to obtain the applicable transfer form so that the new owner will have piece of mind knowing that their pre-owned boat comes with the same structural hull warranty protection that was afforded to the original owner.
by the Pro-Line Boats Limited Warranty, including but not
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Safety

Your Pro-Line boat has been constructed with safety in mind. But, remember, boating safety and the safety of your passengers is YOUR ultimate responsibility. You should fully understand the operations of your vessel as well as the basics in boating safety.
Your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGA) and the U.S. Power Squadrons (USPS) offer excellent safe boating classes several times a year. If you have not already passed a boating safety course, we recommend that you do so at your earliest convenience.
Plan your trips carefully. Insure ample fuel supply and a reserve. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Keep current charts onboard. Read USCG boating safety circulars and follow the safety guidelines.

Carbon Monoxide

Be aware of and avoid conditions that can cause Carbon Monoxide poisoning (see USCG boating safety circular 77). Sources of Carbon Monoxide (CO) include any gas or diesel engine and any flame from items such as a charcoal grill, stove or heater. Carbon Monoxide can accumulate to deadly levels in enclosed spaces. Always ventilate occupied areas of the vessel with fresh clean air.
In high concentrations, CO can be fatal within minutes. The effects of CO in lower concentrations are cumulative and can be just as lethal over long periods of time. CO poison is often confused with seasickness. So be aware of the following CO symptoms: Itchy and watery eyes, flushed appearance, throbbing temples, inability to think coherently, ringing in the ears, tightness across the chest, headaches, drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, vomiting, collapse and convulsions.
Do not stand or swim near the motor when the engine is idling.
Carbon monoxide can harm and even kill you inside or outside your boat!
Did you also know:
CO symptoms are similar to seasickness or alcohol intoxication?
CO can affect you whether you're underway, moored or anchored?
You cannot see, smell or taste CO?
CO can make you sick in seconds? In high enough concentrations, even a few breaths
can be fatal.
Most important of all, did you know CO poisonings are preventable? Every boater should be aware of the risks associated with CO - what it is; where it may accumulate; and the symptoms of CO poisoning. To protect yourself, your passengers and those around you, learn all you can about CO.

Emergency Treatment for CO Poisoning

CO poisoning or toxicity is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate action. The following is a list of things that should be done if CO poisoning is suspected. Proceed with caution. The victim may be in an area of high CO concentration, which means you or others could also be in danger from exposure to CO.
Evaluate the situation and ventilate the area, if possible.
Evacuate the area and move affected person(s) to a fresh air environment.
Observe the victim(s).
Administer oxygen, if available.
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Contact medical help. If the victim is not breathing, perform rescue breathing or approved cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), as appropriate, until medical help arrives. Prompt action can mean the difference between life and death.
Shut off potential sources of CO, if possible. Correct ventilation problems and/or repair exhaust problems as appropriate. Investigate the source of CO and take corrective action, such as evacuating and ventilating the area or shutting off the source of the CO, while at the same time evacuating and ventilating the area.
Where CO May Accumulate - Carbon Monoxide can accumulate anywhere in or around your boat
as shown in the following pictures:
Inadequately ventilated canvas enclosures.
Exhaust gas trapped in enclosed places.
Blocked exhaust outlets.
Another vessel's exhaust. CO from the boat docked next to you can be just as deadly.
"Station wagon effect" or back drafting.
At slow speeds, while idling, or stopped. Be aware that CO can remain in or around your boat at dangerous levels, even if your engine or the other boat's engine is no longer running!

How to Protect Others & Yourself

You are in command of your boating safety. Follow these simple steps to help keep Carbon Monoxide from poisoning you, your passengers or others around you.
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Know where and how CO may accumulate in and around your boat.
Maintain fresh air circulation throughout the boat at all times. Run exhaust blowers
whenever the generator is operating.
Know where your engine and generator exhaust outlets are located and keep everyone away from these areas.
Never sit, teak surf or hang on the back deck or swim platform while the engines are running. (Teak Surfing is a new and dangerous boating fad that involves an individual holding on to the “teak” swim platform of a vessel while a wake builds up then lets go to body surf on the wave created by the boat; hence the term - Teak Surfing.) Teak surfing is never a safe activity.
Never enter areas under swim platforms where exhaust outlets are located unless the area has been properly ventilated.
Although CO can be present without the smell of exhaust fumes, if you smell exhaust fumes, CO is also present. Take immediate action to dissipate these fumes.
Treat symptoms of seasickness as possible CO poisoning. Get the person into fresh air immediately. Seek medical attention unless you are sure it is not CO.
Install and maintain CO alarms inside your boat. Do not ignore any alarm. Replace alarms as recommended by the alarm manufacturer.
Get a Vessel Safety Check. A VSC is a free bow-to-stern safety examination.

Fire

Be aware of and avoid conditions that can lead to accidental fire.
Guard against and watch for fuel spills and leaks.
Inspect wiring for damage or exposure that could lead to short circuits or arcing.
Make sure those who smoke are careful to avoid accidental fire ignition.
Do not allow smoking while fueling.
Keep a USCG approved fire extinguisher on board at all times.
Inspect the fire extinguisher regularly, learn how to use it properly and instruct others as
well.
Use water to fight a fire as a last resort after making arrangements to abandon the boat if a fire should get out of control.
Keep the following in mind if a fire is burning out of control and you must abandon the boat:
o Abandon the boat into the wind to minimize burn risk from floating fuel. o Wear a PFD unless you must swim under burning fuel. o If swimming under burning fuel, throw a PFD outside of the burning area
and swim under the burning fuel to it.

Equipment

USCG regulations require that you have the following Coast Guard approved equipment onboard while operating your boat:
Fire extinguisher(s)
Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for each occupant
One throwable PFD
Sound signal device
Navigational lights if operated at night
Sight signal device approved for day and night use when in coastal waters or the great
lakes
In addition, here is a list of suggested equipment you should have aboard your Pro-Line:
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First aid kit and blankets Anchor and sea anchor with sufficient line
Mooring lines and fenders Bailing device
Combination oar/boat hook Tool kit and lubricant
Spare prop and hardware Spare fasteners, hose clamps and plugs
Spare fuses and bulbs Binoculars
Local charts and compass Waterproof flashlight and spare batteries
2 way radio EPIRB (emergency beacon)
Floating key chain and spare keys Navigation device
Emergency food and water Waterproof matches or lighter

Flooding

Be aware of and avoid conditions that can cause your boat to flood with water. Possible causes of flooding include:
Damage to the hull or thru-hull fitting
Waves washing into the boat
Water entering cockpit due to improper loading
Failure to properly install the drain plug.
The boat will become flooded and may swamp, capsize or sink if water enters the boat faster than the bilge pump can expel it.

Hazardous Conditions

Keep track of weather developments and avoid hazardous conditions whenever possible. When forced to operate your Pro-Line in storm conditions:
Wear PFD's.
Stow loose gear and equipment.
Place heavy items as low as possible.
Head for the easiest port to reach a safe location.
Reduce speed. You are moving too fast if the boat leaves the water.
If power fails, anchor or rig a sea anchor off the bow (an empty ice chest in a pinch).
Stay with the boat if it capsizes, unless it is burning out of control.

Passenger Safety

You are responsible for the safety and conduct of your passengers. Make sure that:
You instruct your passengers on the proper use and location of PFD's. Children and non-swimmers should wear one at all times.
Each passenger is in a safe location when underway and knows to keep the boat balanced.
At least one other person knows how to operate the boat in case of an emergency.
Your passengers are aware of propeller dangers and the possibility of sudden maneuvers
and jolts.
The engine is turned off and the key is removed when swimmers are near the prop or using the dive platform.
All passengers keep away from lines under stress in case they break and recoil.
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Regulations

The USCG is the authority of all waterways. Local authorities enforce State Boating Regulations. You are subject to marine traffic laws and "Rules of the Road" for both federal and state waterways. Therefore, you must submit to boarding if requested by the proper authority. There are many publications available from the Coast Guard concerning regulations. Call the United States Coast Guard Info Line at (800)-368-5647 for additional information.

Rules of the Road

Know and use the “Rules of the Road”. Your boat is subject to U.S. Coast Guard enforced marine traffic laws know as “Rules of the Road.” There are two sets of rules: the US Inland Navigation Rules and the International Rules. The latter rules are applicable to all vessels inside the demarcation lines separating inland and international waters. You may obtain a copy of the rules from any of the following and by requesting the publication titled “Navigational Rules, International - Inland.”
Your local USGC
The United States Coast Guard Info Line (800)-368-5647
The USCG Headquarters by logging on to uscg.mil
The information here is only a “brief” overview. Please
Audible warning signals:
o One short horn blast: starboard course change. o Two short horn blasts: port course change. o Three short horn blasts: astern operation. o Five horn blasts: doubt about previous signal or danger. o A Five-second horn blast every minute: for fog operation.
When overtaking, give-way vessel announces intention with horn blast(s) and waits for a response, then completes maneuver.
When approaching head-on, both boats give way after giving appropriate horn blast(s) (preferably to starboard).
When crossing, a vessel converging from starboard has the right-of-way. Port vessel gives way (both acknowledge with one short horn blast).
Know and observe navigational buoys and markers.
Give way to craft under sail.
contact the USCG for detailed information.

Alcohol

Don't drink and drive. If you have been drinking, appoint someone who is an experienced boater and has not been drinking to be the designated driver. Never operate a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Operation of motorized vessels while under the influence is a Federal offense carrying a significant penalty.
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