Click to hear our ad on PERSONAL WATER CRAFT SAFETY - JUNE 2009.

Personal watercraft (PWC), commonly referred to by their brand names, Jet Ski, SeaDoo, or WaveRunner, are the fastest growing form of boating in the United States. Like a car, a PWC requires skill and good judgment to operate safely. Because a PWC is a boat, operators must follow the rules applicable to every boater. And, remember these legal requirements and safety tips specific to the use of a PWC:

• In Michigan, no one under the age of 14 may operate a PWC.
• A child under 7 years of age cannot ride or be towed behind a PWC, unless with a parent or guardian or designee of the parent or guardian.
• Each person riding on or being towed behind a PWC must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket.
• A kill switch must be attached to the person, clothing or life jacket of the operator and the PWC’s ignition.
• It is illegal to operate a PWC during the period that begins with sunset and ends at 8:00 a.m.
• You must not operate a PWC within 150 feet of another vessel, other than another PWC, unless traveling at a slow, no wake speed.
• You must not operate a PWC within 200 feet of Lake Michigan’s shoreline unless traveling at a slow, no wake speed perpendicular to the shore.
• You must not operate a PWC in water less than 2 feet deep, unless traveling at a slow, no wake speed, or are docking or launching the PWC.
• Do not weave your PWC through congested traffic or swerve at the last possible moment to avoid a collision.
• Alcohol and PWC driving do NOT mix.
• Do not harrass wildlife or disturb aquatic vegetation with your PWC.

The waterways are for everyone to enjoy, and PWC riders must respect the rights of others and practice common courtesy while riding. Learn more about safe boating in Michigan at Michigan Department of Natural Resources website.