Personal Watercraft Riding Safety Tips

Personal watercraft (PWC) offer a thrilling way to experience the water, combining speed, agility, and fun into a compact machine. However, like any water sport, riding a PWC comes with inherent risks. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, practicing proper safety measures is essential to ensure that your time on the water is both enjoyable and secure. In this blog, we’ll cover essential PWC safety tips to help you ride responsibly while minimizing risks.

Wear a Life Jacket

Wearing a life jacket is a simple but critical safety measure when riding a personal watercraft. Even if you're a strong swimmer, the sudden impact of falling into the water can disorient you, and a life jacket will keep you afloat. It is essential to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) that fits properly and is suitable for PWC use. Make sure all passengers, regardless of their swimming ability, also wear life jackets.

Maintain a Safe Speed and Distance

Speed is part of the excitement of riding a PWC, but it's crucial to exercise control and caution. Always operate your PWC at a safe speed, especially when near other vessels, swimmers, or in congested areas. High speeds reduce your reaction time and increase the risk of collisions or losing control. Maintain a safe distance from other watercraft, buoys, and shorelines, giving yourself plenty of room to maneuver and avoid obstacles.

Learn How to Fall Safely

Falling off a PWC is a common occurrence, especially for beginners. Learning how to fall safely can reduce the risk of injury. If you feel yourself losing balance, try to fall away from the PWC to avoid being struck by the machine or its components. Always remember to let go of the handlebars when you fall to prevent injury to your arms or wrists. Once you’re in the water, avoid panicking and swim back to the PWC.

Stay Alert and Aware of Your Surroundings

One of the most important aspects of personal watercraft safety is staying alert at all times. Constantly scan your surroundings for other vessels, swimmers, floating debris, and changing water conditions. PWCs are highly maneuverable, but their agility doesn’t negate the need for careful observation. Watch out for larger boats that may not be able to see you or stop as quickly.

Use the Kill Switch Lanyard

A kill switch lanyard, or safety lanyard, is a device that automatically shuts off the PWC's engine if the rider falls off. It’s a small but essential safety feature that can prevent runaway PWCs, which can pose a danger to both the rider and others on the water. Always attach the lanyard securely to your wrist or life jacket before starting the engine. If you’re separated from the PWC, the lanyard will cut the power, allowing you to safely swim back to the craft without the risk of it continuing to move away from you or colliding with others.

Safety is the foundation of any great adventure, and by following these PWC riding safety tips, you’ll be well-prepared to ride responsibly while having fun on the water. If you’re looking for personal watercraft for sale, visit J&B Cycle & Marine in Timmins, ON, to see what we have in stock. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff looks forward to serving you!