Use your jet ski safely at the coast this summer
HM Coastguard is warning people of the dangers of jet skis, personal
watercraft (PWC) and motorised recreational craft after a spate of incidents in
recent weeks around the south west coast.
Many were breakdowns, but these incidents also included jet skis and
motor boats overturning in the water, getting too close to other vessels,
collisions and conflict between users of these craft and other sea users, such
as swimmers.
Sadly, two incidents resulted in fatalities.
Richy Williams, Senior Coastal Operations Officer for the area said:
“The majority of PWC and motor craft users operate their vessels responsibly
but there are some who don’t respect the water, the capabilities of their
vessels and other water users.
“We want people to enjoy themselves at the coast, but also to make sure
they’re staying safe.
“Jet skis, PWCs and motor vessels can be powerful machines, so always
operate your vessel within the limits of your, and your vessel’s, capabilities.
Be aware of the presence of other water users and ensure that you are aware of
the impact your activities have on others.
“Ensure you have a means of alerting the coastguard if you get into
difficulties such as a VHF, handheld VHF or Mobile phone in a dry bag. A
Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) may be useful for more remote locations, along
with flares and, where possible, always wear a kill cord which will cut your
vessels engine should you move away from its controls or become detached from your
vessel.
“Know the bylaws that are in place in the location you are operating
your vessel, stick to them and be respectful of other water users. If you see
anyone putting others at risk or in difficulty at the coast, call 999 and ask
for the Coastguard.”