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B. Water Skiing/Wakeboarding/Kneeboarding
The popular sport of water skiing has brought a
special set of safety precautions to observe in boating.
The following guides help prevent accidents while
water skiing.
1. Water ski only in safe areas, away from other
boats and swimmers, out of channels, and in
water free of underwater obstructions.
2. Allow no one who can not swim to water ski.
Skiers must wear a USCG approved flotation
device. A Type III water-ski vest is an approved
and practical PFD.
3. Have a second person aboard to observe the
skier and inform the driver about the skier's hand
signals (Figure B17). The driver must give full
attention to operating the boat and the waters
ahead.
4. Give immediate attention to a fallen skier.
Be careful not to swamp the boat while taking
the skier on board.
5. Always participate in water sports in safe areas.
Stay away from other boats, beaches, swimmers,
and heavily traveled waterways.
6. Be considerate of others with whom you share
the water.
Boating Safety - Section B
7. Give immediate attention to a person who has
fallen. He or she is vulnerable in the water alone
and may not be seen by other boaters.
8. Approach a person in the water from the lee side
(opposite the direction of the wind). Stop the motor
at least a boat length from the person.
9. Turn off engine and anchor your boat before
swimming.
Rotating propeller can cut or sever causing
serious injury or death. Switch engine off
before skiers enter the water and before taking
skiers aboard. Do not leave engine running in
neutral. Accidently engaging shift can seriously
injure skier.
10. Do not water ski between sunset and sunrise.
It is illegal in most states.
For more information about waterskiing, wakeboard-
ing, and/or kneeboarding, please visit the American
Water Ski Association, at their website:
www.usawaterski.org
Figure B17: Skier's Hand Signals
Rotating Propeller!
Owner's Manual Page 36
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