Grady-White Boats Freedom 325 Owner'S Manual Download

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Chapter 2: Safety

Registration Numbers

Federal and State laws require a powerboat to be registered in the State where it is primarily

used. Registration numbers and validation stickers must be displayed according to regulations.

The registration certificate must be on board when boating. The boat serial number or Hull

Identification Number (HIN, page 1–2) is required on the registration form. The HIN is located on the
upper right hand corner of the transom, and is the most important identifying factor. The HIN should
be included in all documents and correspondence to provide you timely service.

Emergency Stop Switch

All Grady-Whites are equipped with an emergency stop switch. This is a safety feature that if

used properly will shut the engine(s) down if the operator leaves or falls from the helm position. The
ignition shutdown system includes a shut-off switch, switch clip, lanyard and lanyard clip. The
lanyard clip is attached to the operator. If a situation arises where the boat should stop, a pull on the
cord to release the clip from the shut-off switch will shut down the engine(s). To reset the emergency
stop switch, simply reinstall the switch clip. The decision to use the emergency stop switch rests
with the owner/operator. See page 82 in Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual.

Emergency Information

While boating, dangerous situations may develop. You should prepare yourself on how to cope

with them whether they happen aboard your vessel or someone else’s. Anticipate and plan for
specific situations such as fire, man overboard, collision, etc. to give you the confidence and ability
necessary to handle an emergency. The key is to remain calm. For emergency procedures, see
Section 4 in Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual.

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Rendering Assistance

The owner or operator of a vessel is required by law to render all practical or necessary
assistance to any person or vessel affected by collision, accident or casualty.

However,

you are not required to endanger your vessel or passengers to render assistance.

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Accident Reporting

Report all boating accidents to your local authorities. Federal regulations require boat
operators involved in an accident to submit a written report within 48 hours.

In the event

of death or disappearance, notification is required immediately

by phone or radio in

addition to the written report. These reports can be submitted to the State Boating Law
Administrator. Forms can be obtained through the USCG, local harbor patrol offices,
sheriff, and police stations.

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Lightning Precautions

This awareness is included to ensure the safety of the owner and passengers. Always be
mindful of the weather! When a lightning storm advances, certain safety precautions
should be taken. Dock the boat and seek shelter on land. If this is not possible, seek
refuge inside the boat until the storm has passed.

Stay out of the water!

Lightning will

seek a ground when it strikes and may pass through metal components if it hits your boat.
For this reason, avoid contact with metal parts of the boat under these conditions.