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Radio Controlled Boats Are Not Toys
By Lynn McArthur

Even though they are smaller than 'real boats', radio controlled boats are not toys! Hobby-grade radio controlled boats have a lot of features that toy-grade boats don't.

For example, they have fast moving parts and very hot battery packs...so you must be extremely careful when operating them!

In order to make sure you are enjoying your new hobby, here are some simple guidelines for you to follow. You are in charge, and it is your responsibility to ensure that you and everyone around you is safe from accidental harm. So keep these simple guidelines in mind when operating radio controlled boats.

• First of all, children should always be supervised when operating hobby-grade radio controlled boats.
• You should never operate your radio controlled boat alone - always have a partner. It's important to have a 'spotter' - someone to watch for any unsafe condition that might arise.
• You may plan on standing on the shore or at poolside, but you should have (and use) life vests! It's a good idea that at least one of you is able to swim. After all, you never know when your radio controlled boat might need rescuing from the middle of a lake, pond, or even your own swimming pool! Your battery could die, your boat might go out of range, or it might just quit running for some reason!
• Always treat moving parts with great respect...keep your hands, fingers, hair, and loose clothing away from all of the moving parts on radio controlled boats - for example, the props, clutch bells, or blades.
• Your radio controlled boat is Very HOT...literally! Exhaust pipes, clutch bells, engine heads, battery packs and other parts all become extremely hot and can cause serious burns. Be cautious and aware when handling these parts!

Remember

to protect yourself and others around you as well by using common sense, good judgment and following safe guidelines for use of radio controlled boats on lakes, rivers, ponds, and swimming pools. Pay attention to local rules and regulations...and obey the guidelines set forth.

• Never operate your boat anywhere near people or animals that are in the water. Radio controlled boats can act very unpredictably on occasion, and even a brief loss of control could be catastrophic.
• As a 'preventative measure' you should keep your radio controlled boat in good working order.This involves inspecting your hull for any potential cracks, holes, or other damage. Not only will damage to the underside of your hull allow water to leak in, there is an enormous potential hazard to your electronics! In case of doubt about the condition of your hull, you are better off waiting until you can properly repair any damage before you put your boat in the water.
• When you are launching or retrieving your boat out of the water, you need to be careful as well. When you are launching your boat, make sure you are doing so in water deep enough that your prop won't come in contact with any rocks, sticks, or other items that may be on the lake bed. Also make sure that the water is deep enough so that the boats rudder doesn't get hung up either! Also pay attention to where you stand...make sure you are standing in an area where you have solid footing...beware of algae-covered rocks.

It is so important that anyone in the pit area wears shoes! Sandals or open-toed shoes of any kind are dangerous. I hate to think about the possible injuries.

So, the bottom line is - avoid potential problems by being prepared. Be SAFE, and have FUN!

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