Oregon Safe Boating Course
Chapter 8: Other Water Activities
8.1 Personal Watercraft and other Jet Propelled Watercraft
8.1.1 Operational Characteristics of PWCs
A Personal Watercraft (PWC) is propelled by an inboard engine
powering a water jet pump and is designed to be sat, knelt, or stood on in contrast to the traditional style of sitting in a vessel, like a typical boat. The PWC generates its power by drawing water in through
the bottom of the boat by an internal propeller (impeller) and accelerates the water
through a nozzle at the back of the boat. Most PWCs are designed for 2, 3 and even
4 people.
8.1.2 Off-Throttle Steering
As mentioned, PWCs generate their power by pulling water through the impeller and
out the nozzle. The stream of accelerated water that moves through the nozzle also
provides the steering ability for the vessel. A PWC will continue on the same course
- even if the steering wheel is turned - once the throttle is off. Unlike a power-driven
vessel - where slowing down or turning off the motor and steering through obstacles
is advised - a PWC can only maintain its steering ability with the throttle applied.
You must apply the throttle and steer away to avoid obstacles - once you release
the throttle, you lose the ability to steer the craft. Also - Newer PWCs are equipped
with off-throttle steering capabilities.
8.1.3 Stopping Ability
Inexperienced drivers must be particularly careful when driving a PWC back to dock
or into shore because PWCs cannot stop quickly. PWCs have no brakes and have no
ablilty to stop other than turning around. Give yourself enough time and space to
slow down; it takes most PWCs a few hundred feet to come to a stop after being
at full throttle.
8.1.4 PWC Load Capacities
Load capacities will vary for PWCs. There are a number of different sizes of PWCs:
from single to four-person vessels. Consult your User's Manual for your PWC's load
capacities - and never exceed the manufacturer's recommendations.
8.1.5 Re-boarding a PWC
A PWC is relatively easy to right if it overturns. Most have a decal attached to
the back of the vessel which indicates the proper direction to turn the PWC to the
upright position. Consult with your User's Manual if a decal is not present - contrary
to popular belief, there is a proper direction to turn it over, and you can do damage
if the PWC is turned the wrong way.
While righting a PWC is a relatively easy task - re-boarding can be more challenging.
It is especially difficult to re-board a PWC when you are tired and in rough waters.
To re-board a PWC:
- Always approach from the direction marked on the hull
- Pull yourself up high enough to kneel on the running board
8.1.6 The Purpose and Use of a Lanyard
Your PWC will not start unless the lanyard is attached to the start/stop switch.
The lanyard is there for your protection. PWCs are fun to drive with their quick
acceleration and sharp turning ability. This also means that PWC operators inevitably
end up in the water and off their vessel.
If you fall off the PWC the lanyard will be pulled off the start/stop switch and
the PWC will stop relatively quickly. The lanyard ensures a 'runaway' PWC does not
endanger other swimmers or boaters. And, when the lanyard stops the engine - you
won't have to swim so far to get back on for another ride!
8.1.7 The Purpose and Use of a Fuel Reserve Tank
Riding a PWC can be a ton of fun - it is easy to lose track of time when you are
darting about the waterways. But a PWC does not have room for oars to row ashore!
Most PWCs have a built-in reserve fuel tank that holds a gallon of fuel. Keep a
close eye on fuel levels and head for shore if you must use the reserve fuel tank.
8.1.8 Laws and Regulations
Do not underestimate PWCs - they are very powerful for their small size and demand
the same respect as any boat. In fact, PWC operation must adhere to the same rules
and regulations as any other powerboat - including registration with the state
and a B-1 class fire extinguisher aboard. Plus PWCs have some additional
requirements:
-
The operator as well as all passengers on a PWC must be wearing an inherently buoyant
U.S. Coast Guard approved Type I, II, or III PFD.
-
When towing someone on a tube
or on water skis, there must be capacity on the PWC to accommodate the operator,
the observer as well as the tuber/skier(s).
-
PWCs must stay at a distance
of 200ft from other water skiers or others being towed behind a vessel.
-
PWCs must operate at slow 'no-wake'
speed, maximum 5 mph limit when:
Within 200ft of a swimmer,
surfer, diving flag, bank or wading angler, dock, swim float, boat launch, ramp,
pier, marina, floating home, moorage area, or boathouse;-
Within 100ft of any anchored
or non-motorized vessel; or
-
Within 200ft of shoreline
on all lakes, reservoirs, and bays.
-
PWC operators in Oregon must
not exceed 10mph when approaching within 100ft of a motorized or sailing
vessel that is underway.
8.1.9 Accident Prevention
Many of the aforementioned regulations are simply common sense and use of respect
on the waterways. PWCs ride lower in the water, as a result, they are more difficult
to spot and can often be shielded by other boats.
- Keep your distance from other boats to avoid blind-spots and respect boaters' space.
- Also keep a safe distance from other PWCs. Because the vessels can turn so quickly
and accelerate rapidly - it is even more important to leave yourself enough time
and space to react to other PWC operators and swimmers.
- Take a look behind you before you make a turn and please be mindful of your wake.
A PWC can send a powerful stream of water from the nozzle that could harm or at
the least, distract or annoy other operators.
- Be careful that your spray does not affect other boaters, swimmers or passengers
that may slip off the back during a hard acceleration.
Have fun - but be courteous of your fellow boaters and property owners to ensure
a safe boating experience.
8.1.10 Noise Control
PWCs, like most watercraft, can be noisy! There is no need to draw attention to
yourself when operating your PWC in heavy traffic, close to the shoreline or at
the dock. Be aware of your surroundings and be considerate of those who are sharing
the waterway.
8.1.11 Hours of Operation
PWCs may be operated at all hours of the day, but must be fitted with the required
lights in order to operate between sunset and sunrise.
8.1.12 Age Restrictions in Oregon
PWC operators in Oregon must be at least 16 years old. Operators must have proof of successful completion of an approved Boating Safety Course. A Card-holding adult (18 and older) must be in direct supervision on the PWC when anyone under the age of 16 is operating.
PWC cannot be rented to anyone under 18 years of age.
8.2 Water skiing/Wakeboarding/Tubing in Oregon
-
Children ages 12 and under must be wearing a U.S. Coast Guard approved PFDs while water skiing, riding a tube or being towed behind a vessel
in any manner.
-
The use of self propelled water
skis is not acceptable in the state of Oregon.
-
Vessels must display the red
or orange skier-down flag when the individual they're towing falls into the water.
-
Skiing while under the influence
of alcohol or drugs, including prescription narcotics and illegal drugs is forbidden.
-
When towing an individual there
must also be an observer on the vessel besides the operator.
-
Water skiing (or towing of people
on other devices) is only allowed between sunrise and sunset. It is prohibited between
sunset and sunrise.
- The operator of the boat may not manipulate or control the boat so as to cause the
person(s) being towed to collide with any object or person.
8.2.1 Other Considerations
There are some other considerations for safeguarding the person being towed:
-
Do NOT run parallel to the shore
in shallow water to drop off the towed person. Keep your distance and let the towed
person swing into shore.
-
Check the prop and towline before
each outing for wear.
-
The towing vessel should never
be remotely controlled.
-
Turn OFF your engine before approaching
closely to a person who has fallen during a towing activity and approach the fallen
person from the driver side so the operator does not lose sight of the towed person.
- Establish communication signals between the operator and the towed person (i.e.:
holding up a ski after falling)
8.2.3 Hand Signals
Skier Ok
Return to Dock
Skier Down
Speed Up
Stop
Speed Ok
Turn Left
Turn Right
Slow Down
8.3 Diving and Snorkeling in Oregon
Particular care must be taken when boating in waters where there are divers. A vessel engaged in diving must display a blue and white flag.
A red and white flag carried on a buoy is to be used to mark areas where diving is in progress, although divers may stray from the boundaries of
the marked areas.
Be sure you know what the 'diver down' flags look like. If you see either flag, keep well clear of the vessel and diving site, and move at slow speed.
Oregon law requires that operators keep at least 200 feet from the vessel and diving site.
Similarly, those engaged in diving or snorkeling must keep within 200 feet of the diving site or vessel.
Snorkelers and scuba divers alike are asked not to dive in areas already occupied by numerous boats. Diving should not take place in narrow waterways, as such would restrict other vessels from passing.
8.4 Hunting & Fishing
Anglers and hunters need to be aware of safe boating practices and follow the same
guidelines as other recreational operators. Similarly, recreational boaters need
to give anglers/hunters a wide berth and respect the space needed
to successfully fish and hunt.
Casting and retrieving fish and firing a gun require a steady boat and proper precautions:
- Use the buddy system. Fishing or hunting alone is very risky. At the very least,
let a responsible friend or family member know where you plan to fish/hunt and when
you expect to return.
- Peak fishing hours tend to be during quiet boating times (early morning and early
evening). During these times, vision is limited - be sure to have proper navigation
lights in working order and a back-up flashlight.
-
When fishing/hunting during the day, keep an eye out for other boaters and respect
their space. Many anglers/hunters tend to focus exclusively on fishing/hunting and
neglect to keep a proper lookout for fellow boaters and other anglers.
-
Load your boat properly. Try to keep equipment low and centered, as this greatly helps the boat's stability.
- Avoid quick movements. Use caution when retrieving a fish, collecting decoys or
firing your rifle - all these actions can result in falls overboard emergencies.
-
Remain seated as much as possible. When you have to move around the boat, try to always keep three points of contact with the boat at all times, as this will help you and your boat to remain stable.
- Slow down around other boaters and show respect by limiting noise that amplifies
and travels over water.
- Wear a PFD! Too many hunters/anglers are lost every year when they fall overboard.
Whether retrieving a trophy fish or shooting game, anglers/hunters must realize
how easily they can fall overboard in their respective sports - a worn PFD could
save a life! Inflatable PFD's are perfect for fishing or hunting, as they do not limit mobility. When in colder waters, consider a full-body PFD or immersion suit. These will help you stay afloat as well as help you keep warm.
Recreational
boat operators need to respect and recognize anglers/hunters. Give anglers/hunters
a wide berth. Anglers are casting all around their vessel and hunters are firing
guns - stay clear! A boat's wake could swamp an angler's boat. Additionally, anglers
that are trolling may have their fishing line out a fair distance behind them -
approaching too closely could sever the fishing line.
8.5 Paddlesports
Canoeists and kayakers are boaters too - and need to follow safe boating practices.
A significant portion of fatal capsizes result from occupant movement. A study of
paddlesport accident statistics from 1995-2000 identify priority problem areas and
targets that offer the greatest opportunity to significantly reduce canoe and kayak
fatalities, namely:
- 75% of all fatalities examined were associated with canoeing (versus) kayaking.
- 83% of all canoeing related fatality victims were not wearing a PFD at the time
of the accident.
-
Occupant movement and weight shift within a canoe played a major role in roughly
50% of all canoeing accidents.
- Approximately 50% of canoe and kayak related fatalities were fishing at the time
of the accident.
- At least 25% of victims in fatal canoeing accidents are believed to have consumed
alcohol immediately prior to the accident.
(Source: Critical Judgement: Understanding and Preventing Canoe
and Kayak Fatalities; American Canoe Association 2003)
8.5.1 General Paddling Safety Guidelines
- Wear a properly fitted lifejacket and avoid alcohol. Be prepared to enter the water,
know how to swim.
- Standing up or moving about in a canoe or kayak greatly increases the chance of
capsize.
- Maintain three points of contact while moving around. (As you move a foot to step
forward, you should be holding onto the boat with BOTH hands, then with both feet
down, move one hand at a time.)
- Load the boat properly (keep the weight centered both from side to side and bow
to stern. The lower and the closer the load in the boat is to the boat's centerline,
generally the more stable the boat will be, assuming there is adequate freeboard.
Stay within the limits of the boat's capacity rating on the capacity plate if one
is present.)
- Keep your shoulders inside the gunwales of the boat. When retrieving something from
the water, reach with your paddle or guide the boat close to the object.
- Never paddle alone. There is safety in numbers.
-
Be mindful of strainers. Debris which collects around rocks or bridge piers can trap floating objects, and are
very easy to overlook until it is too late. Keep an eye out when paddling underneath a bridge, and try to stay away from rocky areas.
-
Pay plenty of attention to signs, buoys or warning markers indicating low-head dams. They are very easy to miss from upstream, and virtually impossible to detect until it is too late from upstream. Stay well-clear of low-head dams.
- Avoid extreme conditions: including weather, distance from shore, water conditions,
current - including flood water or fast current beyond skill level.
- Take hands-on training. Paddling instruction will teach you balance, use of stabilizing
strokes, safe exit and entry on the water, and rescue and recovery skills.
Chapter Summary
Upon completion of reading Chapter 8, you should have knowledge of:
- What a Personal Watercraft (PWC) is, its characteristics and laws/regulations regarding
a PWC
- Water skiing, wakeboarding and tubing regulations and recommendations
- Diving and snorkeling guidelines
- Hunting and fishing guidelines
- Paddlesports safety guidelines.
Chapter Quiz
- What does PWC stand for?
- Presentable Water Craft
- Public Water Craft
- Personal Water Craft
- Propelled Water Craft
- True/False: A PWC can only maintain steering ability with the throttle applied.
Thus, if you release the throttle while driving a PWC, you lose the ability to steer
the craft.
- A PWC has no brakes. If an operator is driving a PWC at full throttle, what should
he or she keep in mind when trying to slow down or stop?
- That a quick and sharp turn should do the trick.
- That coming to a stop takes a few hundred feet therefore enough time and space
on the water should be taken into account.
- To head towards a sandy beach area, the shore will help to slow down the PWC.
- To slow down just a few feet away from the shore or dock and de-board. The PWC
should stop and the operator can grab it and pull it in.
- Which of the following should an operator not do if they wish to learn how to
practice and master re-boarding a PWC to prepare himself/herself in the event that
the PWC overturns?
- Practice first in open waters.
- If he or she is off the PWC and trying to re-board, approach should be taken
from the direction marked on the hull.
- Pull his or body up out of the water high enough to be able to kneel on the running
board.
- Practice first in calm waters.
- A PWC will not start unless the lanyard is attached to the start/stop switch.
Thus an operator should always attach the lanyard to their wrist or ________ to
ensure that if they fall off, the PWC will stop rather quickly in order to not endanger
other boaters/swimmers.
- Which of the following is not considered a rule or regulation that a PWC operator
should follow?
- A PWC needs to have a B-1 class fire extinguisher on board.
- All those aboard a PWC must be wearing a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all
times.
- When towing someone on a tube or on water-skis, there must be capacity on the
PWC to accommodate the operator, the observer as well as the person being towed.
- The only lights that a PWC is required to have, is a flashlight on board.
- To operate a PWC in Oregon, the operator must be at least ______ years of age
and must have proof of successful completion of an approved Boating Safety Course.
- Since a PWC rides lower in the water and this means that the operator must be
aware that they are difficult to spot and are sometimes shielded by other boats.
Which of the following is not a recommended safe operation method while out on the
water and that could actually cause an accident?
- Keeping a good distance from other boats.
- Taking occasional looks behind before making a turn.
- Staying mindful of the wake caused by the PWC which can distract or harm others.
- Sticking with other PWCs on the water since if traveling in packs, it is easier
to spot them and its easier to zip around the PWCs that may make a quick turn.
- True/False: As long as they are not operating a boat, an individual may waterski
or go tubing under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- True/False: Individuals who are out paddling should wear a Personal Flotation
Device (PFD), even though their boat may not be equipped with a motor.
Quiz Answers
- C
- True
- B
- A
- Personal Flotation Device
- D
- 16
- D
- False
- True
Oregon Safe Boating Course