Jet Skis are fun, fast and simple with just a handle bar, seat and an jet powered engine! You must respect a machine with this much power. Boating.com provides safety tips and information you need to protect yourself and other around you while operating. Make the most of your lakefront property…HAVE FUN, BE SAFE!
Take a PWC Safety Training Course. Most Boating Safety Training Facilities also offer Personal Watercraft training and education. These courses will give you the ‘rules of the road’ and proper operation of the PWC. Check with your states – Division of State Police Marine Law Enforcement because now some states require by law you complete a PWC Safety Certification Course before hitting the Water. The course must be approved by National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). This course is also recognized by the US Coast Guard as acceptable to the National Recreational Boating Safety Program.
Safety Equipment. All riders must wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD). Next, securely attach the engine stop Lanyard to your wrist or PFD. Keep it attached at all times; if you should happen to fall of the PWC the engine will shut-off when the Lanyard releases the kill switch. Also be sure to have stored a fire extinguisher on-board.
Stay Alert. While under way always keep your head on a swivel watching for potential hazards or other PWC & Boats. The most popular accident on a Jet Ski is collision or hitting something or someone while making quick turns at high speeds. Be extra careful on high traffic times such as weekends and holidays. Alcohol will NOT keep you alert as you should be; do not consume alcohol while operating the PWC.
It’s YOUR Machine. No one knows your PWC or proper operating safety better then you; so be cautious when letting someone else borrow your Jet Ski. Nearly 80% of PWC accidents occur when the owner let someone else borrow their machine. If you let someone else borrow it, ride with them first to show them proper handling and safety.
What age can I Operate a PWC. No one under the age of 18 should be operating a Jet Ski (Manufacturers recommends 16 years of age as the minimum for PWC operators). Check with your state and what they allow. Some states allow 13 to 17 years of age to operate a PWC with a Boater Education Certificate and a photo ID. Children younger than 13 are prohibited from operating a Jet Ski; they can however ride with someone who is 18 or older.
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