Our last Carefree Boat Club training blog covered Local Boating Hazards. As a follow up, this week’s #TrainingThursday will cover Operating a Personal Watercraft. We will cover steering and stopping a personal watercraft (PWC), courtesy on the water and other PWC considerations.
Personal Watercraft (PWC) regulations vary by state on requirements for license and age.
Steering
Most PWC’s have a steering nozzle at the back of the unit and are controlled by a handle bar that turns right or left. For example, when the steering handle is turned right, the PWC turns right. This is caused by force on the left side of the steering nozzle.
Stopping
It’s important to know that you only have control over your PWC for as long as you have power. If the engine shuts off, or you idle, you lose all steering control. In order to stop, release the throttle and shut off the engine. Keep in mind just because you do these things doesn’t mean you will stop right away. Allow yourself plenty of distance for your forward momentum.
Safety
- Read and understand the owner’s manual.
- Always look over both shoulders before turning right or left.
- Do not ride too closely to other PWC drivers.
Courtesy On The Water
- Know the area! Don’t ride too close to a channel where there are houses or the noise might be perceived as loud.
- Scan areas near docks and shores for swimmers and be mindful of their activity.
- PWC operators must adhere to the same boating state laws and regulations as other powerboats.
- Do not dock in grassy areas – this has been known to be harmful for the environment.
Tune in to our next training blog on Ignition Safety Switches!
(Images and lessons sourced from Thinkstock, JetSkiNaplesFlorida)
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