Water skiing is great fun. Combine boating and skiing with an amazing toy. You can use a jet ski for all kinds of different activities.

The obvious use is for skiing. That includes jumps, intense turns, races, and even dives. Opening a jet ski in crystal clear turquoise waters is a sensation that words cannot describe. You can also go on a cruise with your beloved on a beautiful sunny day.

People have also used theirs for fishing. You can troll a lure or drive to a great spot for bottom fishing or snorkeling. This is a very versatile toy that has a downside.

“A middle-aged couple on vacation dies in terrible boat accident after their personal watercraft hits the 59-foot dolphin tour boat ‘in the middle’

“Lower Gwynedd Couple Killed in Jet Ski Accident in Clearwater, Florida”.

“9-year-old boy killed in jet ski accident at Lake Norman”

You could fill this page with articles on accidents related to these powerful toys. Unlike a boat, a ski has no collision protection. Like boats, people operate them insecurely. A jet ski is very light for the speed it can reach. If you hit it, your chances of extreme injury are very high. Anyone can buy a ski and go out on the water, but how many are learning safety issues before they go? This is almost like giving your car keys to your 11-year-old son or someone who has never driven in his life.

For the Coast Guard, a jet ski is considered a personal watercraft and is governed by laws similar to those for boat operators. There are specific laws for personal watercraft that one should be aware of in the event that one breaks down and has an accident or is stopped by the USCG or the Port Patrol.

Before heading out to public waterways, it is best to know the laws governing the operation of personal watercraft, as well as to have enough experience operating a ski so as not to be a threat to others. A little practice is all it takes. Wear a quality life jacket, you will enjoy the necessary comfort and protection.

Lastly, I think it is important to learn the rules of the road. These laws try to share the waterways with other vessels. The US Coast Guard considers your jet ski to be a boat and you should too.

As you learn this fun sport, give it the respect it deserves and learn to be a safe and responsible operator.

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