Riding a Jet Ski (PWC) is all about high-speed thrills on water. As South Africa is popular for its watersports scene, you will see plenty of jet skiers zooming around and having the time of their lives. However, with speed and thrills come dangers that lurk right behind them. In this article, let’s talk about how you can avoid the risks while riding a jet ski in South Africa.
Jet Ski and Thrills in South Africa
For some, it is Netflix and Chill. And for others, it is Jet Ski and Thrills.
And it IS fun. Any jet ski rider would tell you that. Riding your jet ski at high speeds as you cut the waves, feeling the wind in your hair as you worry about nothing and live in the moment… ah, the most-desired escape!
It is worth experiencing in South Africa, that’s for sure.
However, while we are living in the moment, what we do not usually see coming are the risks that follow, and plenty of them do when you ride a jet ski.
Now, mix that factor with inexperience and you become a liability not only to you and your property but also to other lives at sea.
Familiarise yourself with these Jet Ski Riding Risks
To avoid something, you have to get familiarised with them first. Let’s do a quick sum-up of the risks before we delve into the methods of avoiding them.
The risk factors are majorly associated with the rider and the jet ski, and minorly associated with others on the sea.
Factors associated with others are not always in your control. But what you control are the risk factors that fall under your responsibility. They are as follows.
Risk factors concerning a rider may include recklessness, excessive speed, and inattention. Combine that with inexperience and the risks increase by tenfold.
Risk factors concerning a jet ski may include engine malfunction, loose parts, and damaged navigation system (propellers or steering). Thus, you must maintain your jet ski at least once every two months.
We have talked about Jet Ski Maintenance in another article. Make sure to check it out!
Let’s Avoid the Risks Related to Riding Jet Ski in South Africa…
…and keep South African waters safe. Let’s see.
Take it Easy if You are a Beginner
If you are riding a Jet Ski in South Africa, then it means you already have an RYA PWC license or a Skipper’s License. Without any of the aforementioned licenses, it is illegal to drive a jet ski.
Obtaining a license is one thing, however, but getting familiar with jet ski controls is another.
If you are a beginner, take it easy. Start slow. Get familiar with how fast your jet ski accelerates, how quickly it turns, and most importantly, how the waves feel when you drive a jet ski.
Get a basic understanding of these factors and get comfortable with them.
Life Jackets are a MUST!
No matter how important it is, we occasionally find someone riding a jet ski without a life jacket.
Don’t be that guy.
Life jackets are a must and they do work in emergencies. It is better to be prepared than to be sorry.
Apart from a life jacket, consider wearing proper attire. These may include sunglasses, wet suits, gloves, and appropriate footwear. Wet suits are usually optional but highly recommended if you are taking your jet ski in tidal areas.
And don’t forget your kill-switch lanyard. If you fall off the jet ski, the lanyard yanks the key, which automatically kills the engine. Highly important.
Maintain SAFE distance
Riding on water is much different than riding on a road. A road is a stable surface, as opposed to a water surface.
Considering the factor, you do not fully control in what direction you may get swayed, or how the waves will direct your jet ski. As a rider, your job is to keep it stable and maintain a general direction as much as possible.
Hence, consider not driving close to any other riders. Maintain a safe distance and always be aware of your surroundings. Most brutal accidents on water are jet ski-related accidents.
Conclusion
There is much more to understanding the risks related to riding a Jet Ski in South Africa. However, if you follow these basic rules, then you should be all right.
Also, in South Africa, almost all the beaches and other public water spaces have their safety rules. Make sure you understand those before taking out your jet ski for a spin. Always be aware of the laws and regulations. They are made for your safety.
On the other hand, if you require a jet ski license, please feel free to contact us. Sail and Power SA provides training for skipper licenses as well as RYA PWC licenses. We are an RYA-accredited institute in South Africa.
Good luck and have fun with a jet ski in South Africa!