How To Stay Safe While Enjoying Your Personal Watercraft This Summer

Operating a personal watercraft (PWC) can be an exciting water-based activity, but it can also be dangerous. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, 634 injuries were attributed to a PWC in 2018.

Common injuries included:

• Broken bones
• Concussions
• Sprains and strains
• Scrapes and bruises

The main causes of the reported accidents were:

• Operator inexperience
• Operator inattention
• Improper lookout
• Excessive speed
• Violation of navigation rules

The following tips can help you stay safe while using a PWC this summer:

• Take a course on boating safety and have your child or children take such a course.
• Always wear a properly fitted life jacket.
• Never ride a PWC while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Maintain an adequate distance between yourself and other watercrafts.
• Operate at a safe speed and be prepared to slow down or stop.

Also don’t forget to have your PWC properly insured just in case your personal watercraft is involved in an incident. For a FREE quote or review of your current personal watercraft coverages, contact us today.