Some Basic Water Skiing Safety Tips 

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Like all water sports activities, safety has to be stressed as a major aspect of water skiing.  Consequently, the following represents some of the main areas of focus that should be considered if a person wants to have as much enjoyment and fun as possible:

• Wear a life jacket that is approved by the Coast Guard.
  
  
• The size of the water area unpon which you will ski determines the number of boats and skiers that can safely function at the same time in the water area.
  
  
• Remember that each boat needs to be able to maintain a 200-foot wide "ski corridor."  Stated differently, the boat should have approximately 100 feet on each of its sides to insure safe operation.  Moreover, the length of the skiing area needs to be at least 2,000 to 3,000 feet long so that hazardous maneuvering, such as continuous turning, can be reduced or eliminated.
  
  
• A depth of at least five or six feet of obstacle-free water is needed for safe skiing so that the skiers don't hit bottom or underwater obstacles during a fall or drag their skies during starts.
  
  
• Learn how to swim.  In a word, in order to attend to safety, the water skier needs to learn how to swim.
  
  
• Make it a point to remember that the American Red Cross offers swimming lessons based on your ability and your age.
  
  
• Check the local weather conditions and do not go into the water unless the water is safe.
  
  
• It is the responsibility of the boat operator and the skier to watch for possible hazards in the skiing area such as stumps; debris; buoys or warning signs; or other swimmers, boats, or skiers.
  
  
• If you are on the boat and it is coming in to shore too fast, make sure you sit down in the boat.
  
  
• If you are going to ski in a new area, look at charts of the area or get in the boat and take a drive through the skiing area before you start to ski.
  
  
• Stay clear of objects such as pilings or docks when landing. 

• When approaching a fallen or injured skier, always turn the boat engine completely off.

• When skiing, always watch the water ahead of you.
  
  
• Do not ski at night or in restricted areas.
  
  
• Make sure to stay away from crowded beaches, swimming areas, rocks, or bidge pilings.
  
  
• Have an experienced person on the boat to watch the skier.

• Run parallel to shore and come in slowly when landing.
  
  
• Remember that water conducts electricity.  Consequently, it is wise to stop skiing as soon as you hear thunder, see lighting, or know that a storm is coming.
  
  
• Learn proper hand signals so that you are able to signal the boat operator in case of an emergency or difficulties.

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