The Personal Watercraft
Safety Check List

• NUMBERING -- Proper spacing, contrasting color, minimum 3-inch high
• REGISTRATION DOCUMENTS -- Registration papers must be on board
• SOUND PRODUCING DEVICE -- Whistle or horn. A means to attract attention
• WEARABLE PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD) -- Wearable PFD for each person, minimum 50 MPH impact rated.
• FIRE EXTINGUISHER -- One CG approved B-1 extinguisher readily available
• VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNALS (VDS) -- When in distress, means of attracting attention
  • INLAND SIGNALS (for inland areas and lakes) - orange or red flag or other day VDS
  • OFFSHORE SIGNALS (for coastal, offshore, and Great Lakes) - CG approved distress signal, not expired
• BACKFIRE FLAME ARRESTER -- Approved type, tight installation, clean
• FUEL SYSTEM -- Tanks secure. Hoses in good condition
• ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS -- Batteries secure, terminals clean and covered, system organized
• DEFAULT/OVERRIDE SYSTEM -- Engine kill or self-circling device not overridden
• OVERALL VESSEL CONDITION -- Vessel clean, well maintained
• STATE REGULATIONS -- Vessel complies with all state regulations, where operating

DISCUSSION ITEMS (for your safety and responsible operation)

• RULES OF THE ROAD -- Owner-operator understands basic Rules of the Road
• RESPONSIBLE FOR WAKE -- Owner/operator understands rules for wake and damage to others
• SAFE OPERATION -- Owner/operator understands safe operations near swimming areas and other vessels
• OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS -- Owner/operator knows NOT to allow others use of this vessel without proper instruction of basic safety, Rules of the Road and responsible operation
• ACCIDENT REPORTING -- Accidents involving death, serious injury or property damage over $500 must be reported to state authority. Know rules for reporting any accident or injury. Call 800-368-5647 for more information.

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Page last revised on - 07/06/2004