Personal Watercraft Safety Course

Personal Watercraft Safety Course

Safety Mechanisms Most PWCs are equipped with a cutoff switch that must be attached to the operator by a lanyard. If the operator falls off, the lanyard is pulled and the cutoff switch engages to shut down the engine. The PWC engine will stop, and it will glide to a stop nearby. Operating a PWC equipped with a self-circling device is prohibited if the device has been altered. Some PWCs have an automatic idle and self-circling device. If the rider falls off, the PWC will circle slowly in the area until the rider can safely reboard. Before Leaving Home Driving with your PWC on a trailer is subject to all of the laws outlined in the California Vehicle Code. In addition, driving with a trailer requires extra practice and caution. Be especially careful when going around sharp curves, when backing and when you are launching at a boat ramp. Check that the trailer: „ „ Is licensed with the Department of Motor Vehicles and you have the registration certificate in the towing vehicle. „ „ Lights are working. „ „ Hitch and safety chains are in good condition and properly attached. „ „ Tires are in good condition and are properly inflated. „ „ Tie-downs are in good condition and secure. „ „ Has no loose bolts, cracks, or broken joints. „ „ Bearings are lubricated and adjusted according to manufacturer’s recommendations. „ „ Fuel cock on the PWC is in the “off” position. „ „ Fuel cans and other gear are secure. Pre-Operation Check Read and understand the owner’s manual. Be familiar with the steering apparatus and the mechanism that governs the PWC if the rider falls off. Read the warning stickers on the craft. „ „ Check the regulations that apply to powerboating and to PWCs. „ „ Check the weather and water conditions. „ „ Check that you have filed a float plan with a friend or family member. „ „ Check the engine, battery fluids, oil and fuel levels.

17