Before Towing a Skier

Water-skiing, along with being towed on a tube, kneeboard, or similar device, is very popular with boaters. These activities are both fun and challenging; however, towing people on skis or other devices requires additional knowledge and skills.

Before towing a skier, the operator should:

• Have a second person on board to act as an observer.
• Review hand signals with the skier to ensure proper communication.
• Make sure the skier is wearing a U.S. Coast Guard—approved life jacket (PFD) designed for water-skiing. Keep in mind that ski belts are not U.S. Coast Guard—approved. A PFD with a high-impact rating is recommended.
• Be familiar with the area and aware of any hazards such as shallow water, rocks, or bridge pilings in the water.
• Make sure the tow lines are of the same length if towing multiple skiers.
• Never tow a skier at night. It is both hazardous and illegal.