4
SAFETY
Your NorthCoast 255 Hard Top has been designed and constructed with safety in mind. As mentioned, the hull
form provides the best sea-keeping ability for all around recreational use. However, the safety of you and your
passengers rests solely with the owner. The U. S. Coast Guard (USCG) is the governing authority for U. S. waters.
As such, the owner should become familiar the rules of the road and stay current with USCG boating safety
circulars. There are numerous publications available from the USCG. To obtain this information, visit
www.boatingsafety.com
or call the boating safety hotline at 1-800-368-5647.
US Coast Guard Equipment
USCG Regulations require certain equipment be maintained and carried aboard your boat at all times. The
equipment includes:
Fire Extinguisher
One Type II Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for each occupant
One Type IV PFD
Sound Signal Device
Navigation Lights when operating at night
Sight Signal Flare Kit
Anchor and Sufficient Line
THESE REQUIREMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. IT IS THE OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY TO
MAINTAIN THE NECESSARY EQUIPMENT.
Rules of the Road
The USCG conducts boating safety classes on a regular basis in all regions of the country. If you are not familiar
with the rules for safe boating, you should take a class. Some basic highlights for safe operation and navigation
include:
•
A vessel under power shall yield to a vessel under sail.
•
An overtaking vessel shall keep clear of the vessel ahead.
•
Commercial vessels have right of way over recreational vessels.
•
Know and observe navigational buoys, markers and other aids to navigation.
•
Vessels approaching head on shall pass starboard to starboard.
•
A vessel approaching from starboard has right of way.
