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Destination Cornwall - Uniquely Daily |
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Personal Watercraft - Jet Skis Safety
Please Note - Part of this information is probably outdated - If you have problems please notify Destination Cornwall.
Personal Watercraft Safety and Information.
Safety Guidelines for Personal Watercraft (PW) Users.
Reproduced from the RNLI's Sea Safety Liaison Working Group publication of the above title.
Introduction
As a personal watercraft user you have a responsibility towards yourself, your passengers (if carried) and to other water users. Since you will be sharing the water with other craft and vessels, it is important to know what to do in different situations.
Remember! - These craft are not toys and it is recommended that young persons should not be in control without adult supervision.
Some statistics! 44% of launches by lifeboats to assist PWs are caused by machinery failure, 39% by other causes, 12% by adverse conditions and 5% because the craft has been reported as overdue.
Buying a Personal Watercraft
Get advice before buying your personal watercraft.
Users should be guided by the recommendations made by the British Marine Federation these will include:
How to obtain third party insurance which is strongly recommended.
Get your PW fitted with an approved identification system.
Decide on the type of PW that is most suitable for your purposes and whether to purchase a new or second hand unit.
Training.
Get some training.
For information on where training is available in your locality and how to join a recognised club contact the Royal Yachting Association (RYA).
Personal Watercraft users should be able to swim and also be happy when immersed in the water with a buoyancy aid on.
Familiarise yourself with your craft and learn how to operate it safely and with consideration to
others ashore and afloat.
Consult the operators manual provided by the manufacturers particularly with regard to the maintenance of the power unit.
Before allowing a friend to use your craft, make sure they know how to use it properly.
Know your limitations.
What to do before going afloat.
Check the Weather forecast - see main Watersports page.Check on local conditions e.g. tide times (available at Destination Cornwall), underwater obstructions etc.
If possible, go afloat in company so that if you have a problem you are better able to cope with it.
Tell someone ashore where and when you are going and when you will be returning.
A buoyancy aid must be worn!
-It is also recommended that you wear: either a wetsuit or a dry suit, Gloves, Goggles, Protective footwear
Check the condition of your craft and that the power unit has been well maintained.
Always use fresh fuel.
Park your vehicle and trailer with care and consideration. Do not obstruct access for other users and particularly the Emergency Services.
Be safe afloat.
Ensure the engine shut off lanyard, if fitted, is connected to the craft and yourself. Always carry a spare.Check information notices at access points and observe the local bye-laws.
Where applicable, used buoyed channels and designated zones.
Observe local speed limits.
Observe the 'Rules of the Road' - your life may depend on it!
Keep a look out for other craft and keep clear of any other restricted areas i.e. bathers, waterskiers, boardsailers etc.
If you are water ski-ing or towing an aquatic toy, remember to take an observer. This should only be done on craft with a carrying capacity of 3 or more persons.