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Boating Safety
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.
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