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Safety information

EJU30774 in certain kinds of accidents and that it
Operation requirements
could injure you in others.
z All riders must wear a personal flotation de-
A helmet is designed to provide some head
vice (PFD) that is approved by the appro-
protection. Although helmets cannot pro-
priate authorities and is suitable for
tect against all foreseeable impacts, a hel-
personal watercraft use.
met might reduce your injuries in a collision
z Wear protective clothing. Severe internal
with a boat or other obstacle.
injuries can occur if water is forced into
A helmet may have potential safety haz-
body cavities as a result of falling into the
ards, as well. Falling into the water could
water or being near the jet thrust nozzle.
risk the chance of the helmet catching wa-
You must wear shorts with neoprene (wet-
ter, commonly known as “bucketing”, and
suit material) to keep water from being
the resulting strain on your neck could
forcefully injected into the rectum or vagina
cause choking, severe and permanent
during a fall backward. Riders not wearing
neck injuries, or death. A helmet could also
neoprene shorts have received severe rec-
increase the risk of an accident if it reduces
tal, vaginal, and internal injuries resulting in
your vision or hearing, or if it distracts you
permanent damage. Normal swimwear
or increases your fatigue.
does not offer adequate protection.
How should you decide if a helmet’s poten-
tial safety benefits outweigh its potential
risks for you? Consider your particular rid-
ing conditions. Consider factors such as
your riding environment and your riding
style and ability. Also consider the likeli-
hood of traffic congestion, and the water
surface conditions. If you decide to wear a
helmet based upon your riding circum-
stances, choose one carefully. Look for a
helmet designed for personal watercraft
1 Authority-approved PFD
use, if possible. Consider a helmet meeting
2 Wetsuit bottom
Snell or DOT standards. If you will be en-
z Eye protection is recommended to keep
gaging in closed-course competition, fol-
wind, water, and glare from the sun out of
low the helmet requirements of the
your eyes while you operate your water-
sanctioning organization.
craft. Restraining straps for eyewear are
z Never operate the watercraft after consum-
made which are designed to float should
ing alcohol or taking other drugs.
your eyewear fall in the water.
z For reasons of safety and proper care of
Footwear and gloves are recommended.
the watercraft, always perform the pre-op-
z Helmets meeting Snell or DOT standards
eration checks listed on page 36 before op-
are required for IJSBA-sanctioned races.
erating the watercraft.
You must decide whether to wear a helmet
z The operator should always keep both feet
while you ride for recreation. You should
or knees on the riding tray when the water-
know that a helmet could help protect you
9