Launching Your Personal Watercraft

Before you take off

Once you get to the body of water you'll be riding on, make it a habit to check each of these things each and every time you go out:

Check for possible damage that may have occurred during the trip.

If there are other vehicles there to launch, get in line and be patient. Be courteous and use this time to check your craft over.

Be sure the drain plug is in.

Crank the engine over briefly to make sure it's running properly before you launch it into the water.

Check the ramp conditions. Look for things like steepness, holes or moss that might make launching difficult or dangerous.

Attach a bowline to ensure that you can maintain control of the PWC when it floats off the trailer.

Double check oil and fuel levels.

Double check security of all latches.

Make sure that you have enough people to help you. Someone should be available to hold or move the PWC once it's off the trailer so the tow vehicle can be moved to accommodate other boaters who are waiting to use the ramp.

Make sure you back down the ramp far enough so the water level is deep enough for the PWC to be floated off the trailer, but be sure not to back down too far. You don't want your tow vehicle to take on water, get stuck or have difficulty pulling off of the ramp.

Turn the wheel of the vehicle and set your emergency brake before getting out to unload your watercraft.

Once the PWC is launched, make sure everyone is clear of the vehicle and trailer before pulling away.

Before getting on your watercraft, put on your PFD and make sure the safety lanyard is attached to your wrist. The lanyard should not be plugged in until you're ready to get underway and should be removed from the PWC when not in use.

Crank the engine over to make sure it's running properly before you float too far from the dock.

Leave slowly and carefully looking out for other boaters, swimmers, divers or any obstacles that might be in your path.

By following these simple launching tips, planning ahead and being prepared you can make sure each day of the water with your personal watercraft is incredibly rewarding, fun and memorable. Following these tips can't guarantee that nothing will go wrong... the possibility surely exists when you're dealing with the elements and unfamiliar places. But it will help ensure that you're prepared for just about any surprises that may occur.

Personal watercraft (PWC) are quickly becoming the way to view the waves. There are several types of PWC out there, from one-person stand-up units to larger craft that carry 2, 3 even 4 people.

With the popularity of these craft and ever-increasing numbers of them on the water, it's more important than ever to follow rules and safety tips when launching, riding and trailering your PWC.

Before you reach your destination

Here are a few tips to consider before heading out to your destination:

Check the local weather. You don't want to be caught out on the water in hazardous conditions.
Inspect your PWC and trailer to be sure that everything is in good working order.
Load up all of your gear including Personal Flotation Devices (PFD), wet suits, gloves and any other gear you use when riding.
Check trailer straps and any chains or locks to be sure they're in good condition.

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