Stay safe on water skis and jet skis

Few things are as exhilarating as summertime water sports. But whether you're operating a personal watercraft (PWC) or being towed behind one, make safety your number one priority with these suggestions.

All-around safety rules for water sports

• Participate in a water or boater safety course.
• Wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
• Always let someone know where you're going before you head out.
• Boat only during fair weather.
• Don't participate in high-speed sports in low-light or after dark.
• Don't ski if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Water skiing safety

• Inspect your equipment.
• If you aren't familiar with the body of water, ask someone who is about areas to avoid.
• Avoid skiing in shallow water or on small or busy lakes.
• Review hand signals. Typically, an extended right or left hand indicates the direction to turn, a thumbs up or down directs drivers to adjust speed and a raised palm means stop.
• Make sure a spotter is on board with the driver.
• As soon as you begin to fall, release the towrope and fall backward so you don't injure yourself on the ski.
• Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
• When you're down, hold up a ski to make yourself visible.
• Don't approach or board the boat until the engine is off.

Jet ski safety

Personal Watercrafts (PWC) such as Jet skis, WaveRunners and Sea-doos have several safety tips as well.

• Be sure you meet your state's minimum operating age and education requirements.
• Before leaving, check the PWC to be sure it's in working order and that you have the necessary equipment on board.
• Wear eye protection.
• Keep the ignition safety switch lanyard on your wrist or hooked to your life jacket. This cuts power to the engine if you fall off.
• Follow basic boating rules and practice proper boating etiquette.
• If you fall, don’t attempt to hang on, and get clear of the watercraft.
• Avoid dangerous maneuvers like using another watercraft's wake as a ramp.
• When pulling a person, your PWC should be able to seat you, a spotter and the person being towed.
• Keep your feet inside the PWC, and maintain a firm grip on the handlebars or the strap on a 3-seat jet ski.
• Ride defensively. Scan for boats and objects in your path, and drive at responsible speeds. Remember, most PWCs don't have a braking system, and you'll lose steering capability when the power is off.

Learn more about personal watercraft safety from the United States Coast Guard. And contact your State Farm® agent to help make sure your watercraft is properly insured.