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California Boating
A Course for Safe Boating
Chapter 4
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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.
Check
the regulations that apply to powerboating and to PWC.
Check
out your skills. Be a competent swimmer.
Check
the weather and file a float plan with a friend or family member.
Check
the engine, battery fluids, oil and fuel levels.
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:
Basic First Aid kit
Anchor and a tow line
Extra lanyard
Phone or VHF radio
Tool kit for simple repairs
Check
your personal equipment:
Wear suitable clothing—wet suit, eye protection with a leash, gloves, booties
or boat shoes.
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:
Hull is not damaged.
Engine cover latch is secure.
Storage compartment cover is secure.
Engine compartment is vented.
Gas and oil caps are secure.