Safety Matters

Never operate your personal watercraft after dark. It may be illegal in your state and it is always unsafe. In case of emergency, have a watertight flashlight aboard at all times.

In the event of fire aboard your PWC, wearing your PFD, swim away to a distance at which you will be safe from explosion (at least 30 feet - more if possible) quickly.

Never allow anyone to put any body part - such as hands, hair, or feet -- near the jet pump intake. That pump is powerful enough to suck them in and hold them in place. Serious injury or even drowning can occur.

Do not tow other boats or personal watercraft. Provide assistance, instead, by getting help from a larger boat or a law enforcement patrol.

The United States Power Squadrons has joined with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxillary in conducting free Vessel Safety Checks (VSC) of pleasure boats. This program of checking and discussing the safety equipment onboard your vessel is designed to make your boating activities safer for you, your family and friends, and fellow boaters. No report about your boat is ever made to any law enforcement agency. If your boat meets VSC requirements, the award of the VSC decal is your assurance that your boat is properly equipped and meets the minimum Federal equipment requirements. A properly equipped boat is a safer boat.