Jet skiing is an exhilarating water activity, but it comes with responsibilities to ensure safety for riders and others sharing the water.

Here are key guidelines and rules to follow when operating a jet ski.

<h3>1. Designated Activity Zones</h3>

<b>Activity Areas:</b> Jet ski areas are defined by water management authorities based on local conditions. These areas generally range from 200 meters to 1 kilometer offshore, starting from the coastline or the baseline of territorial waters. Authorities may further restrict this range within the specified boundaries.

<b>Markings:</b> Clear markers must delineate the jet ski activity zone, and pathways from land to these zones must be at least 30 meters wide, with clear signs indicating their location.

<h3>2. Separation of Activities</h3>

Jet skiing zones must not overlap with areas designated for non-motorized water activities such as swimming or diving. This ensures the safety of participants in all water activities.

<h3>3. Required Gear</h3>

Riders must wear:

<b>Safety Helmet:</b> Protects against head injuries in case of accidents.

<b>Life Jacket:</b> Designed for jet skiing, equipped with a whistle for emergencies.

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<h3>4. Navigation Rules</h3>

To prevent collisions and ensure smooth operation within the activity zone, follow these navigation rules:

<b>1. Head-On Encounter:</b> Both jet skis should turn to the right, passing each other on the left.

<b>2. Crossing Paths:</b> The jet ski on the driver’s right side has the right of way and proceeds straight. The other jet ski should turn right and pass behind the straight-moving vehicle.

<b>3. Overtaking:</b> The overtaking jet ski must pass on the left side of the slower one, maintaining a safe distance and signaling its direction clearly.

<b>4. Crossing Channels:</b> If one jet ski approaches from a side channel, the jet ski on the right has the right of way and should maintain its course and speed. The other jet ski should adjust its direction to the right and pass behind.

<h3>5. Flipping the Jet Ski Upright</h3>

If the jet ski overturns, move to the back of the jet ski. Use your left hand to lift the left side of the jet ski and your right hand to push down the right side, or grab the intake grate or bottom rails with both hands. Use your body weight to rotate the jet ski clockwise (as seen from the back). Practice this maneuver in shallow water before heading out.

<h3>6. Stopping and Docking</h3>

<b>Stopping:</b> Jet skis slow down due to water resistance, and the stopping distance depends on factors like vessel size, load, water conditions, wind, current, and speed. Familiarize yourself with stopping distances under various conditions.

<b>Approaching the Shore:</b> In calm water, approach the beach slowly. Release the throttle as you near the shore, and shut off the engine when the water depth reaches 90 cm.

<h3>7. Returning to Shore from Open Waters</h3>

When heading back to shore from open waters, pay attention to wave patterns:

Observe the frequency and spacing of waves. Follow closely (within 3 meters) behind a wave and approach the shore gradually as the wave subsides.