What is one of the most important roles of the observer while towing a skier?

The rules of the road do not provide any special privileges for vessels towing skiers. In addition to relaying the skier’s and operator’s signals, the observer is responsible for watching the skier at all times.

When a vessel is towing a skier?

Every vessel towing a person(s) on water skis, an aquaplane, or other device must have on board, in addition to the operator, an observer at least 12 years old and in a position to observe the progress of the person(s) being towed.

When towing a skier How far should the vessel operator keep the skier from the shoreline or people in the water?

While towing a skier, the operator should: Keep the skier at a safe distance—at least twice the length of the tow rope—from the shoreline, docks, hazards, and people in the water.

How long should the tow line be for two skiers?

If the tow lines are of different lengths, there is a high risk of a skier being cloth-lined by another skier on a longer line. The towline should be sufficiently long to allow the skier to maneuver with ease. The recommended length is 75 feet or 23 meters.

What is the most important thing to remember about steering a PWC?

The most important thing to remember about steering most PWC (and other jet-drive vessels) is that you always must have power in order to maintain control. If you allow the engine on a PWC or other jet-propelled vessel to return to idle or shut off during operation, you may lose all steering control.

What is one of the most important actions to prevent a propeller accident and injury?

Most propeller accidents can be prevented if operators follow a few simple safety practices. Turn off the engine when passengers are boarding or disembarking. Propellers should not be spinning when a passenger is in a vulnerable situation. Prevent passengers from being thrown overboard accidentally.

Which action is allowed when towing a water skier with a vessel?

When a vessel is towing a person on water skis, surfboards, or similar devices, the operator must have another competent person on board to act as an observer or the vessel must be equipped with a wide-angle rearview mirror.

What equipment is required when a vessel is towing a skier and does not have a capable observer on board in addition to the operator?

Every person being towed behind a vessel on water skis or other devices must wear a USCG–approved wearable PFD. Wearable PFDs that are inflatable and most wearable Type II PFDs are not approved for persons being towed, and they are not designed for impact at higher speeds.

What should you do when towing a water skier or someone on a tube or kneeboard?

Vessel operators towing a person(s) on water skis, tubes, kneeboards, aquaplanes, or any other devices have specific equipment and observer requirements. All persons being towed behind a vessel on water skis or any other device must wear a USCG–approved Type I, II, or III life jacket.

How do you tow 2 skiers?

When a boat is towing two skiers at the same time, the tow lines should be the same length. In fact, it doesn’t matter how many skiers you are towing, the tow ropes should always be the same length.

What is the need for steering control on a PWC?

PWC operators need to keep in mind that a jet drive requires moving water through the drive nozzle for maneuverability. In other words you must have power applied in order to maintain steering control. If you release the throttle to idle or if the engine shuts off during operation you will lose all steering control.