Safety Tips for Riding a Jet Ski in Fort Myers Beach, Florida
Do you love being outdoors, enjoying the beautiful blue water and the sunny skies that Florida is so famous for? If so, you may be considering taking a ride on a jet ski. Riding a jet ski is an exhilarating experience, but bear in mind that it can also be dangerous – particularly if you don’t follow the rules.
Before you head out for a day of fun in the sun and on a jet ski, make sure to review these safety tips.
Brush Up on Safety
When you rent a jet ski, the rental company will want to know about your experience with personal watercraft. That way, they can teach you whatever you’ll need to know about safety while riding a jet ski. Listen carefully, and abide by their precautions. They’re the pros, after all!
If you take a real shine to jet skiing and decide to purchase your own, be sure to enroll in a safety class before heading out onto the water. Doing so can also help you save on insurance for your jet ski.
Keep Your Jet Ski Properly Equipped
The Coast Guard classifies jet skis as Class A vessels, and they are subject to the same requirements as any boat under 16 feet. All jet skis that are available to rent should be equipped with a fire extinguisher, a backfire flame arrestor and ventilation system, and a signaling device such as a horn or whistle.
It should also be properly registered, and display the appropriate registration decals. If you don’t see safety equipment or registration decals, that’s a red flag that you might not be dealing with a reputable rental company.
Wear Safety Gear
Always, always wear your life jacket while riding a jet ski.
Additionally, you may want to wear a watercraft helmet. This will protect your noggin if you are ejected from the jet ski. It will also safeguard you from any flying debris that you might encounter.
Life jackets and helmets aren’t required in every state, but for safety’s sake, you should wear them nonetheless. The jet ski rental company will have safety gear to loan you.
Jet Ski Defensively
Did you know that it can take a jet ski up to 300 feet to come to a stop? For this reason, as well as for the safety of everyone on the water, make sure to leave plenty of distance between yourself and any other watercraft.
Be on the lookout for boaters, waterskiers, and other jet skiers who may be maneuvering in an unsafe manner near you. Steer clear of them if at all possible, or slow down so that you can come to a safe stop if necessary.
Don’t Drink Before Riding a Jet Ski
Some people think that piloting watercraft isn’t as dangerous as driving a car and that it’s, therefore, OK to drink before heading out on the water. Nothing could be further from the truth!
Any impairment due to alcohol or drug use can put you at serious risk. This goes for drivers as well as passengers. Never ride a jet ski if you have been drinking or using drugs that impair your judgment.
Wrapping Up
Riding a jet ski can be one of the most exciting experiences of your life. Renting one while on vacation is a surefire way to make amazing memories – as long as you stay safe so that you can continue to enjoy all the attractions that Fort Myers Beach has to offer!
Looking to rent jet skis for an upcoming beach vacation? Contact us for more information!