Safety Tips for Waterskiing and Wake Boarding

This summer, thousands of Californians will head to the water for boating, water skiing and wake boarding. These are great water activities, but the risk of injuries is always present. You can reduce the risk of injuries by wearing proper protective safety gear at all times, and making sure that protective gear is manufactured by a reputed company. Every year, thousands of people suffer injuries in water skiing and wake boarding accidents. According to the Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, most injuries involving waterskiing involve leg sprains and strains. In the case of wake boarders, most injuries are to the head and face. Wake boarding is the more dangerous activity, and is much more likely to result in severe injuries, that require a trip to the hospital, and possibly hospitalization. Reduce your risk of injuries while waterskiing and wake boarding this summer. Make sure that you’re wearing a safety helmet and that the safety helmet is approved for the activity that you are performing. Never get into the water without wearing a life jacket that is approved by the US Coast Guard. Make sure that the boat operator is familiar with the boat as well as the water body that you are waterskiing or wake boarding on. Your boat operator must be licensed to handle the boat. Go over all of your basic hand signals with your spotter. Avoid waterskiing or waterboarding in the night, or in poor visibility, and never waterski while under the infleuence of alcohol. Never get into the boat if the operator seems drunk. Avoid waterskiing or wake boarding in restricted areas.