Jet skis are the hottest things on the water. They are fast and powerful and some can reach speeds as high as 65 mph, but the statistics speak for themselves. Over 30% of all new boat sales are PWCs. Over one-third of all boating related accidents last year involved PWCs. The two most common factors of mishaps involving jet skis are speed and improper operating technique.
Jet skis receive a lot of bad press, mainly due to improper operation. Every new owner of a personal watercraft should familiarize themselves with boating safety and the rules and regulations governing their PWC. Even the most experienced riders can learn something by taking a boating safety course. There are many good courses offered, including
USCG Auxiliary PWC Safety Classes and classes by
BOAT/US which offers courses staffed by volunteers from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadrons. You can also get a free personal watercraft safety guide from BOAT/US at 1-800-274-4877.
The Canadian Royal Life Saving Society has three great sites to check out regarding PWC safety: (1) 10 Water Smart Moves for PWC Riders - a Top Ten List of PWC Safety; (2) Test your knowledge with the Water Smart Rider Test for Personal Watercraft; and (3) Ride Smart, a Rider's Guide to Personal Watercraft.
The rules and regulations concerning the operation of PWCs differ from state to state. It is best to know the rules before you go. PWC Government Updates and Legislative Updates from PWC Zone have all of the latest updates on each state.
Jet Skiing can be a great sport if done responsibly, but if more jet skiers don't take responsibility for boating safety, then we will see jet skiing banned from more and more waterways.
Catch you on the waves!
Karen Gough
