Boating Basics: Specifically for PWCs

Other PWC Considerations

• You and anyone on board must wear a life jacket (personal flotation device or PFD).
• Frequently inspect your PWC’s electrical systems (e.g., starter and engine gauge connections) to ensure there is no potential for electrical spark. Gas fumes could collect in the engine compartment, and an explosion could occur. After fueling, sniff the engine compartment for any evidence of gas fumes.
• Every operator and passenger should know how to swim.
• Keep hands, feet, loose clothing, and hair away from the pump intake. Before cleaning debris away from the pump intake, always shut off the engine.
• Never exceed the manufacturer’s recommended capacity for your PWC.
• Click here to see safety tips on fueling PWCs.
• Click here to view requirements specific to PWCs and click here to read "Sharing Your PWC...Safely" These are both legal requirements specific to PWCs.

Here are some important things to do when operating a PWC:

Do not ride too closely behind another PWC. If it turns sharply or if it stalls, you could collide with it; if the other rider falls off, you could run over him or her.

Be aware of all traffic in your boating area; don't focus just on the short distance ahead.

Always remember that operating a PWC has the same responsibilities as operating any other vessel.