Newspapers / The Echo (Pisgah Forest, … / July 1, 1954, edition 1 / Page 18
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FOR SUMMER FUN, BE CAREFREE BUT NOT CARELESS X \ V -Z) ::n YVTITH sumtner sports now in full swing many of us, together with our families and friends are spending vacations and weekends at Western North Carolina lakes fishing, or pleasure boat rid ing—or both. Fishing from a boat and pleasure riding on a lake can be a lot of fun—until an emergency situ ation arises. Whether or not a few common sense water safety rules are followed, or have been fol lowed, prior to the situation, can often mean the difference between a mere close call and a tragedy. Close to 5,000 Americans will drown this sum mer. Of the 5,000 over 1,200 will drown in small boat accidents—and, in nearly every case, careless ness will be to blame. In most cases, carelessness on the water carries the stiffest of all penalties—death! Help make fishing or boat riding trips happy ones by keeping in mind a few of the following water safety sug gestions. Check all boats for leaks and other defects be fore leaving shore. Have life preservers aboard for all passengers. A life preserver may be needed only once, and when it is, nothing will ever be needed more. An extra oar or paddle and a bail ing can should also be carried as part of the boats equipment. If a motor is used, have it checked before the first boat trip of the season. Be certain that the transom is solid and sufficiently strong before fastening a motor, and match the motor to the boat. As a general rule, never use more than five horsepower on a rowboat. A fire extinguisher and tools and equipment for minor motor adjustments or repairs should also be carried along. Always reduce the speed of power-driven boats when pass ing bathing areas, canoes, or other small boats. Stay as far as possible from other boats, docks, or swimming areas. Before beginning any trip be certain of a plenti ful fuel supply. Carry an emergency supply of fuel in a clean, sound can that has a safety spout. Fuel only in daylight, except for emergency, and never refuel with the motor running. Try to avoid spilling gasoline because it floats on water inside and outside the boat, and above all, never smoke while pouring fuel. If fuel is spilled on the motor, dry it or wait until it completely evaporates before starting a trip. A spark from a short circuit may ignite the fuel. Be thoroughly acquainted with the craft and be able to handle it in a sudden squall or storm be fore going out. Learn to handle a boat by prac ticing with it near shore in shallow smooth water, and, if not an experienced swimmer, keep a life preserver close at hand. Know how much you can count on each person in the boat. Depending on the size of the craft and various circumstances, it is wise to allow non-swimmers in the boat only under one of two conditions: that the boat remains in shallow water that permits walking ashore, or if they wear life preservers and are with swimmers capable of effecting rescues. There are numerous boat hazards which can easily be eliminated by a little forethought. Among 16
The Echo (Pisgah Forest, N.C.)
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July 1, 1954, edition 1
18
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