Jet Skis

Here are some things to consider doing. Some items may not be applicable to you.

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Approx. 50 people are killed and 2,000 seriously injured in personal watercraft crashes each year in the U.S.
Even though personal watercraft make up only approx. 8% of all registered boats in the U.S., they’re involved in approx. half of the boating injuries
Many crashes involve children

Before riding on a jet ski, etc.:

• Take a safety course
• Check weather forecast
• Check tides
• Check chart(s) for water depths
• Ensure operator:
  • Has taken a safety course
  • Is familiar with how to operate the craft, e.g., can it be steered even if not accelerating?
  • Has not consumed alcohol
• Ensure craft is safe, e.g.:
  • Lights operational
  • Passed safety inspection(s)
  • Registered
  • Wear a life preserver
  • Be aware that in many areas, personal watercraft operators are not required to be qualified and/or take a course of instruction
  • Remember that you have almost no protection in the event you crash into a dock, another boat, etc.

While riding on a jet ski, etc.:

• Constantly look around for other craft, obstacles, etc.
• Don’t jump boat wakes close to other boats it’s difficult to see other boats which may be coming on the other side of the boat
• Observe rules of the road
• Regularly check for water leaking into craft

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EXPLORE: Fun