Boating Safety
1-51
Tow Ropes: Tow ropes come in different lengths and strengths for different activities.
Make sure any rope you are using is suited for that activity and that it is in good
condition.
• Never use a rope that is frayed, knotted, unraveling or discolored from use or being
left in the sun. If a rope breaks while in use it can recoil at the skier/rider being towed
or into the watercraft where it might strike passengers. Replace tow ropes with any
sign of damage.
• Never use a tow rope with elastic or bungee material to pull skiers or riders.
• Rope should be attached to the watercraft in an approved fashion with hardware
designed for towing. Refer to your watercraft manual for instructions on proper tow
rope attachment.
• Always keep people and tow ropes away from the propeller, even when idling.
• If a tow rope should become entangled in a propeller, shut off engine, remove the key
and secure it in a safe location before retrieving the rope.
• Tow ropes should be neatly stowed in the boat when not in use.
Preparing to ski or ride: Always have a person other than the driver act as an observer
to look out for the skier/rider.
• Be sure the driver is aware of the experience and ability of the skier/rider.
• The driver, observer and skier/ rider need to agree on hand signals before skiing or
riding. Signals should include READY, STOP, SPEED UP, and SLOW DOWN.
• Start the engine only after making sure that no one in the water is near the propeller.
• Turn the engine off when people are getting into or out of the watercraft, or in the
water near the watercraft.
• Always make sure the tow rope is not wrapped around anyone’s hands, arms, legs, or
other parts of the body.
• Start the watercraft and move slowly to remove slack until the tow rope is tight.
• When the skier/rider signals READY and there is no traffic ahead, take off in a
straight line. Adjust the speed according to the signals given by the skier/rider.
Skiing or Riding: The watercraft and skier/rider should always maintain a sufficient
distance from obstacles so a skier/rider falling or coasting and/or watercraft will not
encounter any obstacle.
• Do not use in shallow water or near shore, docks, pilings, swimmers, other
watercraft, or any other obstacles.
• Use only on water.
• Never attempt land or dock starts. This will increase your risk of injury or death.
• Always wear a properly fitted life jacket (PFD) approved by your country’s agency,
USCG Type III, ISO, etc.
• The faster you ski or ride, the greater your risk of injury.
• Never make sharp turns that may cause a slingshot effect on the skier/rider’s speed.
• The Skier/Rider should be towed at an appropriate speed for his or her ability level.
Chapter 1_15_Axis.qxp_ Chapter 1 doc.qxd 6/27/14 12:15 PM Page 51
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