Safe Seas: Essential Tips for Sea-Doo Riders
Riding your Sea-Doo is a great way to unwind over weekends in the summer, but unless you observe basic tips, your recreational time could turn into something less pleasant. To avoid this situation, use these safety tips in line with regulations and guidelines from the pros to make the most of your summertime fun when using your personal watercraft.
Boating Safety Course
Sign up for a boat safety course to understand boating laws and regulations in Canada. This course will help you to understand rules like right of way, speed limits, safe distance, and safety equipment needs. With elementary training to support your fun, you will increase your chances of staying safe on the water. You will also be more aware of the rights and safety of swimmers and other boaters using their watercraft.
Other safe riding tips that you should learn in this course include:
- Slowing down when the area is experiencing heavy use by others
- Observing the no-wake zone rules
- Avoiding reckless and high-speed riding
- Maintaining a safe distance from the shoreline and other water users
- Being aware of your surroundings at all times
- Checking your Sea-Doo, safety equipment, life vest, and other gear before going out on the water
Life Jackets
Before heading out onto the water, make sure you wear a life jacket. Safety gear should be at the top of your list when playing on your PWC. Also, make sure that the life jacket is at a Coast Guard-approved standard to function properly as a personal flotation device (PFD). Without quality gear like this, your time on your Sea-Doo or jet ski could be less than optimal if you land in trouble.
Wear a Wetsuit
Wearing safety gear like a wetsuit, helmet, or gloves adds to a safe riding experience. Although this safety gear may seem overkill for some, it keeps you safe from skiers and other watercraft users in case you come off your PWC at speed.
Safety Equipment
Always keep a fire extinguisher on hand, together with a first aid kit, when enjoying watersports. Having essential safety equipment with you, such as a safety lanyard, is vital because you never know when you will need to help yourself and your passengers until help arrives in a sticky situation.
Experience vs. Inexperience
Experienced Sea-Doo users understand how to navigate shallow waters and recognize adverse weather conditions. This knowledge tells them which areas to avoid on lakes and when they can go at high speed (within speed limits). Without this experience, it is vital to be cautious on the water. Reduce your speed to avoid being caught up in dangerous currents in saltwater.
Additionally, get to shore to avoid being caught in freshwater or saltwater during bad weather.
FFUN Motorsports Saskatoon
Powersports are a fun way to enjoy outdoor life. When you are ready to take the plunge and get your Sea-Doo, FFUN Motorsports Saskatoon can help with advice and riding tips. Contact us for all your watercraft purchases. We offer a range of PWC makes and models and financing to make your dream a reality.