A Course for Safe Boating

Chapter 4 u Personal Watercraft

Pre-Operation Check Read and understand the owner’s manual. Be familiar with the steering controls, and the mechanism that controls the PWC if the rider falls off. Read the warning stickers on the craft. ƒ ƒ Check the regulations that apply to powerboating and to PWC. ƒ ƒ Check out your skills. Be a competent swimmer. ƒ ƒ Check the weather and file a float plan with a friend or family member. ƒ ƒ Check the engine, battery fluids, oil and fuel levels. ƒ ƒ Check the required safety equipment to make sure the: » Coast Guard-approved fire extinguisher is charged and secure. » Backfire flame arrestor is clean and secure. » Cutoff switch works. » Start/stop button works. » Sound signaling device (such as a whistle or horn)is on board. » Coast Guard-approved life jackets for every person are on board. » Visual distress signals for coastal waters (if your boat is 16 feet or longer) are available.

Check the recommended safety equipment: ƒ ƒ Basic First Aid kit ƒ ƒ Anchor and a tow line ƒ ƒ Extra lanyard ƒ ƒ Phone or VHF radio ƒ ƒ Tool kit for simple repairs

Check your personal equipment: ƒ ƒ Wear suitable clothing—wet suit, eye protection with a leash, gloves, booties or boat shoes. ƒ ƒ Make sure life jackets are in good condition and that a whistle is attached to each life jacket.

Check the condition of the PWC to make sure the: ƒ ƒ Hull is not damaged. ƒ ƒ Engine cover latch is secure. ƒ ƒ Storage compartment cover is secure. ƒ ƒ Engine compartment is vented. ƒ ƒ Gas and oil caps are secure.

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California Boating  A Course for Safe Boating