AY Honors/Water Skiing/Answer Key

2. Know and practice the following safety rules:

a. Never ski at night.

At night it is difficult for the boat driver to see hazards in the water, including the skier. The fact that the boat must travel at a high speed for skiing makes these hazards even more dangerous. They may not be seen in time to avoid them. High-speed boating accidents can be (and have been) fatal.

b. Never ski during an electrical storm.

When lightning strikes a body of water, the electricity travels across the surface, which is exactly where a skier would be located. If you see lighting while skiing, get out of the water as soon as possible.

c. Always wear a ski vest while skiing.

A ski vest protects the torso from impacts. This is important when travelling across the surface of the water at a high speed. Accidents do happen, and a ski vest can save your life.

d. Check to be sure the vest buckle is securely locked.

A ski vest that comes off during an accident is not nearly as effective as one that remains securely in place.

e. Make sure the ski rope is in good condition.

A frayed rope can break when stressed.

f. Make sure the ski bindings are in good condition.

Bindings in poor condition can break while in use, compromising the skiers control of the skis.

g. Have a spotter or a mirror in the ski boat.

The driver must be made aware if the skier is in trouble. Driving a boat at high speed while oblivious to the skier being towed is a recipe for disaster.

h. Stay clear of objects, such as other skiers, swimmers, docks, or floating objects.

These objects can kill.

i. If a fall occurs, let go of the rope.

Hanging on to the rope after a fall will subject the body to numerous impacts with the surface of the water. Being dragged along can also wrest the ski vest out of position.

j. After a fall, raise a hand to indicate you are all right.

This is to let the people on the boat know you are OK. This should be your regular practice so that in the event of an injury, failure to signal will bring swift help.

k. Do not stand in the ski boat while it is moving.

The likelihood of falling out of a boat is greatly increased for persons not seated. A fast boat can easily suck a person under where he can be hit by the propeller.