Be safe out their on personal watercraft
The Personal Watercraft Industry Association is promoting the responsible use of personal watercrafts by encouraging safety and education. Our local lakes are very low this summer, which makes safety all the more important.
Kicking off this Memorial Day weekend, the organization will launch its second annual Safe Rider program, educating users of PWC on safety and asking them to sign a pledge committing to the safe and responsible operation of their vessels. The pledge can be accessed online at http://www.PWIA.org.
“Our mission is to advocate for a safe and enjoyable experience on any personal watercraft,” said David Dickerson, executive director of PWIA. “Bringing the Safe Rider campaign to PWC users for a second year in a row will help us to continue to reach a larger audience with the message that PWC fun and safety go hand in hand.”
PWIA first launched the Safe Rider program in 2013 with an inaugural on-water event on Lake Lanier, Georgia in partnership with state legislators and local businesses. Following the local event, a nationwide call to action was initiated. Safe Rider’s pledge form asks that all PWC riders agree to the take the following steps towards safety and fun on the water:
• Scan the water for hazards and other boats
• Avoid aggressive maneuvers
• Follow local boating laws, including rules to prevent the transfer of invasive species
• Examine your equipment
• React to conditions
• Insist on a safe distance from other boats, swimmers and fixed objects
• Drive sober
• Evaluate weather and waterways
• Respect the environment by avoiding fuel spills and operating close to marine life
“Responsible riding isn’t just about personal safety. Our pledge encompasses PWC etiquette for riders of every skill level in multiple locations or scenarios,” Dickerson added. “It includes being considerate of those around you. Being mindful of other vessels in your vicinity and how your rate of speed or wake affects them. And don’t forget about marine life, be sure to respect ecologically sensitive areas. Sign the pledge today, commit to its recommendations and start having fun on the water!”
