Introduction

A Jet Ski or Personal Watercraft (PWC) is a powerful machine that is fun for all age groups. It is important to always remember to ride safely. Be sure to discuss safety with your rental operator.

Jet Ski is the brand name for a type of Personal Watercraft made by the Kawasaki company. The term is also widely used to refer to Personal Watercraft made by other companies.

Driving Tips

The following is a list of items that your rental operator should demonstrate to you. Safety conscious rental operators often require customers to take some basic instruction at the time of the rental.

1. Start and shut off the engine and be aware that the Jet Ski / Personal Watercraft will not steer without power; power must be maintained through the pump.
2. Know that the lanyard connection to the start / stop switch must be secured to either the Personal Flotation Device (PFD) or wrist.
3. Know how to safely approach and depart from a dock, always drawing near another object from the side, not head-on.
4. Learn how to perform an emergency turn.
5. Practice how to board, re-board and re-right the Jet Ski / Personal Watercraft if you've fallen off of it and are in the water.
6. Know how to use a chart, map and compass (if applicable).
7. Know how and when to use distress signals or flares (if applicable).
8. Know all of the Jet Ski / Personal Watercraft's equipment and how it functions. A great example is to know the contents of the emergency kit and where it is located.
9. Know how to ventilate the gas tank and understand how long a tank of fuel will generally last. It is a great rule of thumb to use about 1/3 of the fuel to get to the destination, 1/3 to return to port, thereby keeping 1/3 in reserve in case of emergency.

Safety Equipment

1. Everyone who rides the Jet Ski / Personal Watercraft must wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times. The Personal Flotation Device should be an approved PFD in good repair, appropriate to the activity and should properly fit the individual. Highly visible PFDs are recommended. Studies have shown that the operator's PFD contributes to overall visibility of the Jet Ski / Personal Watercraft while in operation.
2. Eye protection
3. Wetsuit
4. Footwear
5. Gloves
6. Whistle

Safe Riding Practices For A Jet Ski / Personal Watercraft

1. A Personal Water Craft should only be operated by persons 16 years of age or older. It is recommended that a training course developed by a training school or organization be followed for first time or inexperienced users.
2. Become familiar with the area in which you will be operating. Be aware of hazards and speed limits.
3. Become familiar with the basic rules of the water particularly as they apply to vessels in sight of one another in crossing, meeting and overtaking situations.
4. Travel at slow no-wake speed for the first 30 metres from shore and when the situation warrants it.
5. Keep a safe distance from other boaters, watercraft, swimmers, docks and keep clear of wildlife.
6. Be aware that it is against the law to operate a Jet Ski / Personal Watercraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
7. Do not operate a Jet Ski / Personal Watercraft in restricted visibility between sunset and sunrise.
8. Be considerate of others by not operating for long periods in one spot or by avoiding shoreline places such as launching ramps, picnic areas and swimming areas.
9. Ensure the operator is aware of ecologically sensitive areas where the Jet Ski / Personal Watercraft should not be operated.
10. Always check the weather forecast before starting out; be alert for wave, wind, and cloud changes that signal bad weather approaching.
11. Ask your rental operator if the rental terms allow for towing or water-skiing.
12. Carry out a pre-ride inspection as recommended by the manufacturer.
13. Ensure the rental operator has insurance for the Jet Ski / Personal Watercraft.

• Safe and responsible Jet Ski / Personal Watercraft operation is good for the sport.
• For more information and to receive boating safety publications, please contact your local Office of Boating Safety or the Marine Manufacturers Association.

Manufacturers of Jet Skis / Personal Watercrafts

• Kawasaki Watercraft
• Sea-Doo by Bombardier
• Yamaha WaveRunners

Useful Links

• National Marine Manufacturer's Association (NMMA)
• United States Power Squadrons
• Personal Watercraft Conflict Resolution
• Northwest Personal Watercraft Safety Project
• Personal Watercraft Industry Association (PWIA)
• United States Coast Guard - Office of Boating Safety
• American Watercraft Association
• Pwcsafetyschool.com/
• WaterCraft.com