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Personal Watercraft Operation Chapter 4 Section 15. America’s Boating Course 3 rd Edition. >>. It’s a Boat. Class A boat – under 16 feet Same rules as boats Additional rules may apply Designed for speed – risks. >>. 2. PWC Characteristics. Open, sit-on design
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Personal Watercraft Operation Chapter 4 Section 15 America’s Boating Course3rd Edition >>
It’s a Boat • Class A boat – under 16 feet • Same rules as boats • Additional rules may apply • Designed for speed – risks >> 2
PWC Characteristics • Open, sit-on design • Internal jet drive for propulsion • Designed for planing speeds • Awkward at slow speeds >> 3
How a PWC Works • Jet drive with impeller • Nozzle used to steer • No steering without • propulsion • Reverse via clamshell device - difficult >> 4
Impeller Waterflow Steerable Nozzle Jet Drive Propulsion >> 5
Operator Controls • Start & stop • Throttle on handlebars • Fuel selector • Reverse lever • Kill switch with lanyard >> 6
Special PWC Regulations • Registration, HIN, capacity label • PFDs – impact type • Fire extinguisher, sound producing device • Visual Distress Signals (recommended) • Accident reporting >> 7
The Navigation Rules • It’s a boat – follow all rules • Maintain lookout • Operate at safe speed >> 8
State & Local Rules • Age, education, licensing • Location & time of day restrictions • Speed • Water skiing • Wake jumping • Additional equipment >> 9
Operate Your PWC Safely • Stopping – no brakes, do 180° turn • Be sure lanyard is attached • Overturning – follow manufacturer’s instructions • Practice re-boarding • Be aware of weather, fuel, visibility >> 10
New PWC Operators • Know that a PWC is a boat, same rules • Take first rides in less congested areas • Know: • proper procedures for deepwater starting & re-boarding • how to steer & control the PWC • how to use safety lanyards • to look around before turning >> 11
If Others Use Your PWC • Meet legal age & education requirements • Understand the importance of staying alert • Know: • basic boating safety & navigation rules • how to use ignition switch lanyard • importance of observing “idle speed” or “slow-no wake” restriction >> 12
Responsible Operation • Consider the environment – below & above the water • Operate quietly LAST 13
End Section 15 END