As summer approaches, you may start making plans to spend time at your favorite beach or lake. If you’re a water sports enthusiast, jet skis offer an excellent way to enjoy scenic views while getting your adrenaline pumping. At the same time, these vehicles present certain safety risks that could potentially leave you seriously injured. Below, learn a handful of ways to stay safe while operating jet skis.

Common Injuries & Causes

Like boats and automobiles, jet skis are heavy pieces of machinery that require careful and responsible operation. When injuries occur, they are often the result of speeding, racing, reckless driving, not wearing a life vest, or allowing children to operate the watercraft. Other reasons why people become injured on jet skis include loss of control over the vehicle and lack of training or experience behind the wheel.

When accidents happen, such as colliding with another watercraft or overturning the jet ski, you could become injured. You may experience concussions, head injuries, spinal cord trauma, wrist and ankle fractures, burns, and whiplash. However, with regular vehicle maintenance and proper safety measures, you can ride comfortably and safely. 

How to Prevent Them

Stay safe on the waters by wearing the appropriate personal watercraft (PWC) safety gear, such as a life jacket. Additionally, wear a kill cord that will remove the key from the ignition and shut the jet ski off so that it does not hit or run over you if you fall off of it.

It is important to operate jet skis mindfully and know your limits. Travel at speeds that make you feel in control of the watercraft, and be aware of swimmers, boats, and snorkelers in your vicinity. Never operate jet skis while inebriated or tired. Pay attention to safety flags posted near the waters, as they may indicate that conditions are too choppy or otherwise dangerous for water sports. It is also encouraged to take a personal watercraft training course to get comfortable behind the wheel and learn how to operate the vehicle safely. 

When you’re ready to take your adventures on the water to the next level, purchase a jet ski from McMillan Marine. They provide various watercraft types, including new and used boats and jet skis, to patrons throughout Rochester, NY. Call (585) 288-2180 to ask about fishing, sports, or jet boats for sale. Visit the website to browse through their inventory of jet skis by Yamaha® and Monterey®.