PERSONAL WATER CRAFTSAFETY AND COURTESY SHOULD COME FIRST
Understand that a SeaDoo or any other PWC is a boat and therefore subject to the same rules as any other. That would include no-wake zones, common courtesy in coves, etc.
Wear your PFD; it's the law — even in an idle zone. Also, wear the lanyard for the kill switch.
When possible, ride with a friend and carry a towrope. Getting stranded due to a breakdown especially on a lake the size of Lake Cumberland can be dangerous.
When you are riding with another PWC, maintain a safe separation between boats.
Remember, no power, no steering. If you let off the throttle, you can't steer period (the modern ski safety devices are only a marginal help and you shouldn't rely on them).
Make sure you know how to handle your ski properly in a panic situation. You can't let off the throttle and expect it to brake. Also, be ware that , at high speeds, it is easy to be thrown from the PWC.
Give other boaters a wide berth. Do not "buzz" other boats.
Do not try to "show-off" on your new PWC. Most boaters have already seen all those tricks and are accustomed to high-powered PWCs.
If you are having guests that want to drive your PWC, but are not familiar with it, first take them for a ride with you driving. Explain the controls. Demonstrate how a PWC handles, including letting off the throttle, making turns, and using reverse. Explain the safety features and what to do in an emergency.
The PWC has a throttle, so use it periodically. No need to run wide open all the time.
If you are going to jump a boat's wake, stay at least 200 feet back and cross/jump in a direction away from the boat (opposite direction the boat is going). Make sure there are no water skiers in the area.
It is illegal and highly dangerous to drive a PWC after sunset or before sunrise. Be aware of the time and your surroundings.
Carry basic tools and spare sparkplugs in the PWC and learn how to clear debris from the impeller.
When towing a tube or a skier, you must have legal space on the PWC for all involved. You also must meet the spotter/mirror requirements.
PWC's have excellent range. Don't just exit the marina or your cove and start hot-dogging it. Use the PWC for cruising and exploring.
