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Personal watercraft: serious fun

LITTLE ROCK, Ark.--Personal Watercraft are the fastest growing segment of the recreational boating market, with annual nation-wide sale reaching more than 200,000 units. With this growth in popularity has come an increase in the number of accidents directly related to the unsafe and reckless operation of these easily maneuverable small watercraft with water-jet drives.

The cause of most accidents is that most operators of PWC are first-time boaters who are not fully aware of the dangers of unsafe operation or do not know the rules of the road.

It is the responsibility of all PWC operators to know the rules, regulations and safety procedures before they step on bard. The following are several important precautionary steps to take when operating a PWC.

• Make sure you are aware of your surroundings. Keep a watchful eye on other boaters and look before making any sudden changes in direction.
• Avoid jumping in the wake of larger vessels. You can easily collide with a boat that is travelling in the opposite direction.
• Obey all posted speed limits.
• Keep a safe distance away from other boats, piers, bridges and swimmers.
• When operating your PWC, be aware of the environmental impact your craft may have in certain areas.
• Use common sense and courtesy to make your ride enjoyable for everyone.

The Army Corps of Engineers also wants you to remember that with a PWC, when there is no power, there is no steerage. A PWC is water-jet driven, and without the thrust of water through the steerable nozzle, it cannot be steered.

When approaching another vessel or object, it is important to know this vessel-specific characteristic to avoid collision. Approximately 80 percent of PWC accidents involve a collision with another vessel.