When you make a list of exhilarating water-based activities that can spike your adrenaline, jet skiing is always among the top five. Unfortunately, fun doesn’t automatically translate to safety. In the US alone, an average of 50 people die each year in jet ski accidents. And another 700-800 people suffer non-fatal injuries.
Known as the Seafood Capital of South Carolina, Murrell’s Inlet is a must-visit place for those who love the outdoors. It has something for everyone, from a wide variety of restaurants to tickle your taste buds to exciting activities like jet skiing or kayaking.
There’s nothing to worry about if you want to jet-ski but don’t own one. There are plenty of places for jet ski rentals at Murrell’s inlet. They’ll help you pick out the best jet ski with optimal safety features to keep you safe.
Jet ski accidents are common, and the consequences can be fatal. But, luckily, it’s possible to avoid these accidents with a little extra effort and careful planning. In this article, we’ll be giving you tips on how to stay on the other side of danger while you tour the waters in your jet ski.
Safety Gear You’ll Need
When you’re out to hire a jet ski, be sure to include safety equipment in the package. Some rental packages usually include safety gear, but if they don’t, you’ll have to acquire them separately.
Here is a list of them:
- Life jackets for both occupants
- Fire extinguisher
- Whistle or horn
- Safety lanyard
- Ventilation system
- Backfire flame arrestor
- Cellphone
- First aid kit
- Distress signals
- Mirrors
- Ladders
- Ropes
- Flashlight
- Jet ski anchor
Tips on How to Stay Safe
Here are a few tips on how to stay safe during a jet ski expedition:
Never drive when intoxicated
The dangers of intoxicated driving also apply when you’re driving on water. Alcohol is not the only thing that can get you intoxicated. Drugs, energy boosters, and other supplements can affect your mental capacity and your physical ability to safely maneuver the jet ski.
If there’s someone else on the jet ski, let them take over the driving while you become the passenger. If you’re alone, wait till you’re sober.
Safety jackets are a must
You’re legally mandated to wear safety jackets while you’re on a jet ski. These jackets are designed to keep you afloat in case of an accident. Even if you’re an experienced swimmer, these jackets can save your life. Do not go on the water without them.
Pay attention to the wake signs
Wake signs will be posted at intervals. You should be on the lookout for them so you don’t risk running into another jet ski.
Observe the weather before you go
Bad weather has caused several accidents that have left the victims injured and even dead. If you don’t want to be in the middle of the ocean when a storm rolls in, make sure to check the day’s weather reports before you head out.
The weather can change in the blink of an eye. Do not rely on your instincts or your predictions alone. You must check weather forecasts for an absolute guarantee.
Observe speed limits
There are speed limits for different regions. Some lakes post them online; others simply have them printed physically.
Tone down your adrenaline and observe these speed limits. Doing so can save you the costs of an accident.
Do not overload the ski
A jet ski is typically designed to transport a maximum of two people at a time. If you’re on a single-seater jet ski, do not take on another passenger.
Overloading the jet ski can bog it down. You’ll not be able to navigate it optimally. The worst-case scenario is that it will capsize. Make sure to check the weight limit of your jet ski before you take it out for a ride.
Wrapping Up
Every adrenaline junkie wants to take a jet ski out for a spin at least once in their lifetime. It is definitely a fun and thrilling experience. But it can also turn out to be a devastating one if the right safety protocols are not followed.
We’ve outlined some safety tips and guidelines in this article, and we hope you’ll use them to stay safe.
