143035_DBW Course_r3

Chapter 4 X Personal Watercraft

Dangerous Moves (cont.) ƒ Operating your PWC in another boat’s wake—the water may be whipped to

45-DEGREE ANGLE

a froth, which can affect how you steer. ƒ Chasing another PWC in small circles.

Bad Weather If you’re caught in bad weather: ƒ Reduce speed. ƒ Proceed with caution. ƒ Head for the nearest safe shore landing area. If the water becomes choppy, head into the waves at a slant, or about a 45-degree angle as shown to the left. Rescue The moving parts of a PWC are inside the craft, reducing your chances for injury. If a rider falls off a personal watercraft, most of the craft have one of the two following safety devices: ƒ A cutoff switch will stop the engine when the operator falls off. ƒ Or the engine will continue to idle and the steering mechanism will turn all the way to port or starboard, making the PWC circle slowly nearby if the operator falls off. ƒ In either case, the operator should carefully climb aboard the PWC. If the vessel has a lanyard, remember to reconnect it in order to restart the engine. If your PWC capsizes: ƒ Right the craft the way the manufacturer recommends. Look for the label with this information on the hull of the PWC. ƒ Board and restart the engine after you have connected the lanyard to the cut-off switch. If your PWC has stalled and will not restart: ƒ Wait a few minutes before trying to restart. The engine may be “flooded” or the fuel line may be clogged. ƒ Do not attempt to repair the engine while you’re on the water. ƒ If the watercraft will not restart, stay with the PWC until help comes. ƒ Wave your arms, or use a whistle, mirror or other signaling device stored on board to attract attention.

WEBSITE For information on a PWC Safety course, visit dbw.ca.gov/ PWCsafety or scan QR code for PWC course.

98

California Course for Safe Boating