Knowledge vital to watercraft users

Since being introduced in the early 1970s, personal watercraft (PWC) have increased in popularity. An estimated 1.3 million PWCs will ride waves on waterways this summer, outnumbering larger pleasure boats.

Statistics show, however, that as PWCs become more common, so do PWC accidents on lakes and beaches. There were 2,562 PWC-related accidents that resulted in 50 fatalities and 1,924 injuries, according to most recent U.S. Coast Guard statistics.

"PWC riders have to learn how to operate the craft safely. They need to know its limitations," said Alan McMillan, National Safety Council president. "The National Safety Council and Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) want to alert PWC operators to ways that can reduce their risk for injury."

UL and the Council recommend the following to PWC operators and owners:

• Remember that a PWC is jet propelled. That means if the throttle is released, the driver will lose steering ability. Users who are unfamiliar with the craft may automatically release the throttle when they get into an emergency situation and crash into docks or other boats.

• Take a safe boating class and make sure that anyone who borrows your PWC does, too. Contact your local PWC dealer or state boating office for class information.

• If you plan to rent a PWC and you are unfamiliar with the craft and boating rules, take a safe boating class and use extra caution while operating the craft.

• Do not jump the wake of other boats.

• Stay alert and remember to look in all directions before making any turns.

• Obey your local laws. Some states have age limits, life jacket requirements and other regulations.

•Always wear your life jacket (also known as a personal flotation device or PFD).

• Never drink while operating PWCs.