Water Skiing Safety Tips

 ______________________________________________________________________

Like all water sports and activities, safety has to be emphasized as a foundational aspect of water skiing.  As a result, the following represents some of the key areas of focus that should be addressed if a person wants to have as much fun and enjoyment as possible:  

• The size of the water area that you will ski on determines the number of skiers and boats that can safely function at the same time in the respective water area.

• Keep in mind that each boat needs to be able to maintain a 200-foot wide "ski corridor."  That is, the boat should have 100 feet on each of its sides to insure safe operation.  In addition, the length of the skiing area needs to be at least 2,000 to 3,000 feet long in order to reduce or eliminate hazardous maneuvering such as continuous turning.
  
  
• A depth of at least five or six feet of obstacle-free water is needed for safe skiing so that the skiers don't drag their skies during starts or hit bottom or underwater obstacles during a fall.
  
  
• Learn how to swim.  One of the safest things a water skier can do is to learn how to swim.
  
  
• Keep in mind that the Red Cross offers swimming lessons based on your age and ability.
  
  
• Wear a life jacket that is Coast Guard approved.
  
  
• It is the responsibility of the skier, boat operator, and observer inside the boat to watch for possible hazards in the skiing area such as warning signs or buoys; other boats, skiers, or swimmers; stumps; or debris.
  
  
• If you are going to ski in an unfamiliar area, look at charts of the area or get in the boat and take a drive through the skiing area before you attempt to ski.
  
  
• Stay clear of objects such as docks or pilings when landing.
  
  
• When approaching a fallen or injured skier, always turn the boat motor completely off.
  
  
• When skiing, always watch the water ahead of you.  

• Make it a point to stay away from swimming areas, crowded beaches, bridge pilings, or rocks.
  
  
• Have an extra person on the boat to watch the skier.
  
  
• Run parallel to shore and come in slowly when landing.
  
  
• If you are on the boat and it is coming in to shore too fast, sit down in the boat.
  
  
• Learn proper hand signals so that you are able to signal the boat operator.
  
  
• Do not ski in restricted areas and do not ski at night.

• Be aware of the local weather conditions and do not go into the water unless the water is safe.
  
  
• Remember that water conducts electricity.  Because of this, it is sensible to stop skiing as soon as you see lighting, hear thunder, or know that a storm is coming.

_____________________________________________