Water skiing and other water sports, such as kneeboarding and rid-
ing on inflatable towable devices, require an increased safety
awareness by all the people involved.
Important: Remember that three people — not two — are required
for safe water skiing: the boat operator, the skier, and an
observer on the boat facing the skier. The observer relays signals
from the skier to the operator. The operator can therefore give full
attention to the operation of the boat and the waters ahead.
Figure 2.6 shows a set of hand signals recommended by the American
Water Ski Association (AWSA). The skier, the observer, and the boat
operator should know and understand these 7 simple signals.
Following these guidelines helps make water skiing a safe and
enjoyable experience:
1. Water ski only in safe areas away from other boats and swimmers,
out of channels, and in water free of underwater obstructions.
2. Make sure anyone who water skis is a competent swimmer.
3. Be sure the skier is wearing a proper flotation device. A properly
designed ski vest will keep a stunned or unconscious person
afloat.
4. Approach a skier in the water from the lee side, and be certain
to stop your motor before coming close to the skier.
5. Give immediate attention to a fallen skier. He or she is vulnera-
ble in the water alone and is difficult to see by other boaters.
For more information about water skiing, Please contact the
American Water Ski Association, 799 Overlook Drive, Winter
Haven, Florida 33884 (1-800-533-2972) or www.usawaterski.org.
2-13
WARNING: Death or serious poisoning can result from expo-
sure to carbon monoxide from engine exhaust. Turn off
gasoline-powered generators that exhaust at or near the water
level when the swim platform on the stern is in use. Swimmers
should not enter the cavity beneath the swim platform.
1. Thumb Up: Speed up the boat.
2. Thumb Down: Slow down the boat.
3. Cut Motor/Stop: Immediately stop boat.
Slashing motion over neck (also used by dri-
ver or observer).
4. Turn: Turn the boat (also used by driver).
Circle motion—arms overhead. Then point in
desired direction.
5. Return to Dock: Pat on the head.
6. OK: Speed and boat path OK. Or, signals
understood.
7. I'm OK: Skier OK after falling.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Figure 2.6 AWSA Water Skiing Signals
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