What is the main role of a second person on a vessel towing a skier?

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. A competent observer is on board and in a position to observe the person being towed.

Who must be on board in addition to the operator of the 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 someone with a PWC One of the requirements is a red skiing?

If towing a skier with a PWC, the PWC should be rated for at least three people—the operator, the observer, and the retrieved skier. The operator of a vessel involved in towing a skier must display a red or orange ski flag whenever: A downed skier is in the water. A skier is in the water preparing to ski.

When towing a skier How far should the vessel operator keep the skier from the shoreline?

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.

Where should your passengers be while the boat is tied to the dock for fueling?

fuel dock
Before beginning to fuel: Tie the boat securely to the fuel dock. Ask all passengers to leave the boat and go onto the dock. Do not allow anyone in your group or others at the fuel dock to smoke or strike a match.

When can you tow a skier?

hour before sunrise. During hours of darkness, from sunset to sunrise, goes by time. It is illegal to tow a water-skier between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise.

How far should a skier be behind a boat?

Try to stay at least 100 feet away from each side of a skier, as he or she may not know your boat is there. Do not approach a skier too close from the rear.

What should passengers do when fueling a boat?

Before Fueling

1. Tie the pleasure craft securely to the fuel dock.
2. Ask all passengers to leave the pleasure craft and go onto the dock.
3. Do not allow anyone in your group or others at the fuel dock to smoke, strike a match, or use a lighter.
4. Check to see that fuel lines, connections, and fuel vents are in good condition.

How should passengers be seated on a board a small aluminum boat?

Passengers on a small power-driven boat (or human-powered craft) should be sitting evenly so the weight is distributed evenly throughout the boat. Having too much weight on one side can negatively affect the performance of the boat and ultimately your safety!

What are the rules for towing a person on water skis?

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.

Can I let someone else operate my boat?

What should you do before letting someone else operate your boat? Test the person’s swimming skills. Make sure the person meets the minimum age and boater education requirements. Check that the person is wearing sunscreen. Ask the person to complete a float plan and file it with the Coast Guard.

How many people can you tow with a PWC?

You may not exceed the specified number of passengers identified by the PWC manufacturer as the maximum safe load for the vessel. If towing a skier with a PWC, all the same laws apply.

What is a capable observer on a skier safety boat?

A capable observer must be on board and report the skier’s progress to the operator. A capable observer must watch from shore or a nearby vessel. A capable observer must be on board only if the skier is not wearing a life jacket. A capable observer must be on board only if the operator and/or skier are under the age of 18.