Jet Ski Safety & Etiquette
If you are wondering how to stay safe on a jet ski, you’ll be glad to know it’s easier than you may think.
By following these simple, common-sense rules, you can enjoy the waters without being injured or hurting someone else.
Slow down. Yes, it’s fun to whip back and forth on your personal watercraft, but it’s also a lot easier to get hurt or cause injury to another if you are going faster. Most jet skis can hit top speeds of 40-50 mph. Slow down and cruise a bit at a lower speed, especially while you are still learning how to drive a jet ski.
By Law all Jet Skiers are required to wear life jackets.
We supply them for free.
Wear a life jacket, always. That means every single time, no matter what. If you hit the water hard enough while riding on a jet ski, you will pass out. Even if you are alert and awake, the waves left in the wake of the jet ski can be deadly.
Wear the safety lanyard (safety key). This brilliant device is worn around your neck and will cut off the engine if you fall from the watercraft.
Wear sunblock. You don’t want to ruin your time on the water with a sunburn! Make sure you cover yourself with sunblock or sun protective clothing to prevent sunburn while you enjoy riding the waves.
Wear eye protection. Spray from cutting through the water can be quite strong—powerful enough to cause damage to your eyes. We highly recommend the polarized sun-filtering kind, so you can safely see even if the sun is bouncing off the water. Keep in mind that goggles or glasses are a minimum—the ideal version is a helmet with built-in protection.
Make sure you bring a good pair of sunglasses, with a cord, these straps slide on to the sides of your glasses and then easily rest around your neck when not on your your face.
Pass with caution. Be wary when crossing the wake of another jet ski or a large boat, as it may block your view of another oncoming vehicle.
Carry a whistle. Have a whistle around your neck or wrist while riding a jet ski. In the event you are thrown off the vessel, you will be able to call for help without damaging your vocal cords.
Follow the age laws. In Florida you must be at least 14 years old to operate a jet ski on your own, or 12 years old with supervision from an adult. However, our company policy is as follows: You must be 18 years of age to rent and operate our jetskis. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult on the jetski.
Only operate jet skis during the day. It is much easier to see while there is sunlight out, which will not only allow you to find your course safer but will also prevent running into any hard-to-see objects out on the waters.
Do not consume alcohol or take drugs before driving a jet ski. Save your victory toast until you are safely back on dry land and completely done riding the watercraft.
