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flag when your towed watersport participant falls down or off the
towed device will alert boats around you to the fact that someone is
in the water nearby and that they should avoid the area.
•
Many lakes have recommended tow patterns. Other boats may
expect that you know the local customs and practices. It is
common that the tow pattern is counter-clockwise around the
lake, but there are exceptions. Check for local recommendations
or requirements.
•
NEVER lift or trailer the boat with water in the bilge or in ballast
tanks. Lift or trailer per manufacturer's instructions.
•
Around marina docks where electrical current is present (such as
shore power connections) it is unsafe to swim as stray electrical
currents may exist, which can cause you to drown.
Tow Line Guidelines
Tow lines come in different lengths and strengths for different
activities. Make sure any line you are using is suited for skiing or
riding and that it is in good condition.
•
Never use a tow line that is frayed, knotted, unraveling or
discolored from use or being left in the sun. If a line breaks while in
use it can recoil at the skier/rider being towed or into the watercraft
where it might strike passengers. Replace tow lines with any sign
of damage.
•
Never use a tow line with elastic or bungee material to pull skiers or riders.
•
Tow line should be attached to the watercraft in an approved
fashion with hardware designed for towing. Refer to your watercraft
manual for instructions on proper tow line attachment.
•
Always route tow lines away from the propeller, even when idling.
Shut off the engine if your boat starts to cross a floating tow line.
•
If a tow line should become entangled in a propeller, shut off
engine, remove the key and put it in your pocket before retrieving
the line.
•
Tow lines should be neatly coiled and stowed in the boat when not in use.
Fallen Skier or Rider
Falling and injuries are common in water skiing and other towed
watersports. Keep tow speeds in a comfortable range given the rules
of the activity and the skill level of participants.
•
Display a red or orange skier/rider down flag to alert other vessels
that a skier/rider is down. In some states, it is required to raise the
"fallen skier" flag when the skier has fallen.
•
Turn the boat and slowly circle toward the person in the water to
return the tow line handle or towed device to that person.
•
Always keep the fallen skier/rider in view and preferably on the
operator's side of the watercraft.
•
Put the watercraft in neutral whenever you are near a fallen skier/rider.
2019 Malibu Boats, LLC Owner's Manual • Page 31
https://www.boat-manuals.com/
•
Shut off the engine when retrieving someone from the water or
if the person in the water gets too close to the boat. Do not trust
neutral gear with an idling engine. Someone may accidentally or
prematurely shift the gear, or the linkages may be out of adjustment
and the propeller may still be slowly spinning.
Develop WATER SENSE
The Watersports Responsibility Code and the Watersports
Safety Code have been developed by WSIA and industry equipment
manufacturers. These Codes are reproduced here for your reference.
Watersports Responsibility Code
Familiarize yourself with and follow The Watersports
Responsibility Code.
WATERSPORTS SAFETY CODE
Before you get in the water: Skiing or riding instruction is
recommended before use. Instruction will teach general safety
guidelines and proper skiing or riding techniques, which may reduce
your risk of injury. For more information on skiing or riding schools,
contact your dealer, Association, or local ski club.
•
Know the federal, state and local laws that apply to your area.
•
If you are not familiar with a waterway, ask someone who is
knowledgeable to tell you about any hidden dangers or things to
avoid.
•
Whether you plan to be in a watercraft, or skiing/riding behind one
it is important you are wearing a properly fitted life jacket (PFD)
approved by your country's agency, USCG Type III, ISO, etc.
•
Inspect all equipment prior to each use, check bindings, fins, tube,
attachment, tow rope and flotation device. Do not use if damaged.
Watercraft Safety: A knowledgeable and responsible drive is the
most important safety device on any watercraft.
•
Never operate a watercraft, ski or ride under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
•
Only use water ballast and people for additional weight.
•
Never exceed the passenger or weight limitations of the watercraft.
•
Never allow passengers to hang outside the watercraft or towed device
or sit on the gunwales or anywhere outside of the normal seating area.
•
Never allow water to overflow the bow or gunwales of the
watercraft.
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