Personal watercraft operators should be aware of the following
Personal watercraft operators should be aware of the following: Personal watercraft are those vessels (boats) which are designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing, or kneeling on the craft rather than sitting or standing inside the vessel. It includes but is not limited to jet skis, wet bikes, wave runners, sea doos and similar craft. Personal watercraft are considered powered vessels and must adhere to the same rules as any other boat. They must be registered, carry flotation devices and be operated at a speed safe enough for the operator to avoid a collision or stop in time to avoid an accident.
Additionally, personal watercraft operators should be aware of the following:
- Jumping the immediate wake (within 100 feet) of another vessel, weaving through congested vessel traffic and riding close to ramps, docks, or the shore is considered reckless operation.
- All persons operating or using personal watercraft must wear a personal flotation device (life jacket), Type I, II, or III (Inflatable cannot be used).
- No person shall operate a personal watercraft between sunset and sunrise.
- Persons under 12 years of age may not operate a personal watercraft unless an adult is on board who can take immediate control of the boat.
- Persons who allow an under-aged operator to use a personal watercraft may be prosecuted in addition to, or in lieu of, the operator.
- Personal watercraft being used to tow skiers, surfboards or other devices must be equipped with 2 mirrors (at least 2 1/2 by 4 inches) or have a person, 12 years or older, to observe the progress of the skier. The mirrors must be mounted on each side of the personal watercraft (not on the handle bars).
- Sailboards (windsurfers) are not considered vessels and do not have to be registered. A personal flotation device is recommended but not required for sailboards.
