How to stay safe on a jet ski
The often brutal Australia summer is slowly introducing itself, and if the Bureau of Meteorology's (BOM) forecasts are correct, many people around the country's coasts will be racing to cool off in the water.
Australia's coasts have an 80 per cent chance of exceeding median temperatures this summer.
According to the BOM, the north of Queensland and the south western corners of WA in particular have up to an 80 per cent chance of exceeding median temperatures between December and February. In short, it's going to be a particularly hot few months for residents living on the coast.
With this weather on the horizon, the ocean has never looked so inviting, especially when jet ski finance means you can treat yourself to a new machine to let loose over summer. However, it's important to keep safe with these powerful pieces of equipment, so here's what you need to know and buy to ensure your summer fun goes off without a hitch.
Buy the right equipment
While buying a jet ski is exciting, you need to ensure you're not hitting the water without adequate protection, as these vehicles can create dangerous situations if used improperly.
Although it may be tempting to embrace your inner James Bond by wearing a military uniform to replicate The Spy Who Loved Me, the famed agent isn't the best role model for water safety. According to jet ski manufacturer Sea-Doo, it's best practice to wear a wet suit when operating these vehicles.
Jet skis are capable of going faster than many people think, and falling off can cause significant injury.
The most important piece of equipment? A life-jacket. Whether you're a driver or a passenger, and even if you can swim like Ian Thorpe, these pieces of gear are an essential safety feature and will likely be the difference between life and death in an accident.
Be extra careful operating jet skis after dark.Respect other water users
With the temperatures the BOM is forecasting, Australian beaches and lakes are likely to be full to the brim over the summer holidays.
At high speeds, it can be difficult to spot swimmers, especially as they're likely to be submerged or only partially visible. When leaving and returning the shore, it's essential to be aware of your surroundings, especially in popular locations where children are likely to be playing in the shallows.
Sea-Doo advises travelling as slow as possible until your vehicle is clear of any hazards.
Of course, other people aren't the only dangers to jet ski riders, as larger watercraft also pose a risk. It's important to keep your distance from other vehicles, no matter their size, as collisions can be especially hazardous in these situations.
Know the regulations
In Queensland, jet skis come under the jurisdiction of personal watercraft and must be operated accordingly to preserve safety. When close to the shore, Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) states jet skis must not exceed a speed of six knots until they are 60 metres from the shore.
Watch out for other watercraft such as boats.This same measurement applies to distances between vehicles where applicable and it encourages people to be aware of their surroundings at all times.
There's also a set of regulations for the more adventurous jet ski users among us. Although some people are happy cruising around, others see the vehicles as a chance to embrace extreme sports.
However MSQ, has a list of suggestions for these cases as well, stating that, provided you are operating in coastal waters, wave jumping or freestyling should only occur outside the 200 metre mark.
On top of this, it's mandatory to register the vehicle and wear a life jacket while it's in use. A secured personal loan can help people gain the necessary safety equipment.
Have a look at our quick loan enquiry option on the side bar to find out if you're eligible for finance, or give the team a call.
