Engineer Clayton Jacobson II introduced the very first jet-ski in the mid of 1960s. Although a fun ride, it also came with a risk of possible Jet Ski accidents. Since then, there has been an ongoing debate on the question, i.e., “are jet skis dangerous?”
Therefore, whether you want to know about the common Jet Ski problems or is it safe to Jet Ski in the ocean, this post is for you.
Jet Ski Accident Statistics
According to the statistics by U.S Coast Guard, around 40 to 50 people have died due to common Jet Ski problems. Furthermore, the U.S Coast Guard reports 600 to 700 common ski injuries every year.
There are several dangers of jet skiing in the ocean. It can result in severe injuries because it does not offer the operator and passenger almost any protection during an accident. Some of the most common injuries include
- Head injury
- Legs hurt after jet ski
- Sea-doo accident
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Burns
- Whiplash
- Damaged eardrum
How to Avoid a Jet Ski Accident
Here are some of the most common Jet Ski Accidents and how you can prevent them from happening.
Flipping Your Jet Ski
Jet Skis are quite big and stable. If you are wondering how heavy a jet ski is? The answer is between 300 pounds to 950 pounds.
Therefore, it is not easy to capsize; however, it is still common for someone to flip the Jet Ski while riding. Most jet skis come with instructions for the riders on what to do in case you capsize. This can happen when you turn your jet ski abruptly.
The best way to prevent flipping your Jet Ski is to make slow and gradual turns until you are comfortable with handling the Jet Ski.
Always keep your speed down and stay in control with complete caution until you are comfortable with handing Jet Ski in the ocean.
If you ever feel the ski is going to flip, turn off the Jet Ski and let go or jump. Now swim to the back of the Jet Ski and look for instructions on how to flip the Jet Ski back over. Once you flip over the Jet Ski, get back on it, start the engine and slowly proceed back to the stop.
Falling Off the Ski
One of the classic Jet Ski fails is some falling of it. From personal watercraft to a performance jet ski, you can find a wide range of skis on the market.
However, the world’s fastest, i.e., Sea-Doo, can teach the top speed of 127 mph. So it is a common problem when people fall off the Jet Ski.
Remember, the faster you go, the more you compromise your Jet Ski safety. Always drive at a speed you are comfortable with and avoid the rocky terrains and shores at all times. You have to remember that the Jet Ski has a fuel capacity with gallons of gas, so a collision with a structure can also cause a fire accident.
Always wear protective gear to protect yourself against common Jet Ski problems. There are several sea doo accidents reported every year, with people reporting injuries. So is it safe to Jet Ski in the ocean? Well, as far as you take all precautionary measures.
Physical Injuries
While a Jet Ski is built to be safe, physical injuries are common ski accidents, including scratched cornea, contusions, broken arms and legs, Jet Ski orifice injury, etc. Jet Ski back pain injury and knee jet ski-related injuries are also some of the common issues.
To prevent such accidents, you must always try to control your speed and ride within your limits. You must build your speed and trick skills slowly and always drive safely.
Is Jet Ski scary? Yes, it is, but you can prevent any damage by just being careful and following the rules and limits.
Damaging Your Ski
If you are an inexperienced or novice Jet Ski rider, you may end up damaging your ski if not careful. Therefore, the first thing you need to do is avoid shallow water, and your jet ski does not have propellers.
As per recommendation, you must ride in water with at least 2 feet depth under your ski’s intake grate.
As you ride the ski, always keep an eye out for any submerged objects in shallow or deeper waters. Know your gas from your brakes as this can compromise your safety by operating the wrong control in case of emergency.
Jet Ski Trailer
Another common ski accident is when you have had your fun and load the Jet Ski on a trailer or docking your favorite ride at home. To prevent any such accident, always approach your trailer area slowly and link glide into your trailer area. It would be best if you now lined up your jet ski while idle.
Now give it little gas once your jet ski lines up with the trailer. In case your jet ski slides back, try again with a bit more power this time. Going too fast can damage the front you bump into your Jet Ski trailer.
Jet Skiing Safety Tips
Here are some tips to help you with jet skiing safely.
- Learn how your jet ski works first and how it operates before you take it out in the water
- You must select an appropriate jet ski model with the right jet ski trailer weighing as per your jet ski model and weight.
- Always stay on top of your jet ski’s service.
- You must gain some experience before riding it out in the open ocean
- Always wear protective gear such as safety goggles, a life jacket, and any other equipment or accessories to keep you safe
- Never drink and ride. Just because you are in the water does not mean you cannot be injured by falling. Plus, driving under the influence can make you dangerous for others in the water.
- Stop speeding. It may thrill you, but it can end up killing you leave you badly injured.
- Always keep a safe distance from other skiers.
- Ensure your jet ski for any accidents. Plus, it will also cover you and others safe in case of an unfortunate event.
- What if the ski won’t start, do not take a chance and make you have it checked before taking it out in the waters. You do not want to be left stranded in the middle of the ocean.
Conclusion
Yes, Jet Ski is a fun ride, but it can also be extremely dangerous if not handled properly. Follow the simple tips and tricks mentioned in this post and learn all you can about your jet ski before taking it out there all by yourself. Remember, safety comes first!