Boating safety is a serious topic. Wakeboarding (and all water-sports) are inherently dangerous and safety is something that needs to be taken seriously. Here we cover boating / wakeboarding safety basics.
As much fun as it is, wakeboarding is an inherently dangerous sport. There are always going to be risks associated with wakeboarding, water sports, and boating in general. Driving a boat puts a lot of power in your hands. And with great power comes great responsibility.
Always follow the laws in Kuwait, however there are some common sense rules of thumb that you should always follow.
Life Jackets: You should always wear an approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) while wakeboarding. Don't fall into the trap. When it comes to something as serious as a life jacket, always go for an Approved jacket! Non approved vests are not guaranteed to float you. If you were to be knocked unconscious, there is the serious risk of drowning. There are USCG Approved alternatives that are nearly as sleek as and much more functional than the non-Coast Guard approved ones. "Comp vest" generally means non-CGA, so stick with the approved jackets and know what to look for.
The second common-sense area I'd like to delve into is being alert. It is so easy to become distracted while on the water and while all your friends are jumping in and out of the water and enjoying the day. But as a boat driver it is your responsibility to stay alert. Watch your sides, front and of course what is coming up from behind. Always be looking around for other boats, people in the water, and other obstacles. Anticipate what other drivers are going to do. Assume that every other driver on the water is going to do the stupidest thing possible and anticipate it.
Also be watching the people in your own boat. People are bound to do stupid things. Set ground rules and ensure that everyone follows them.
Even if you adhere to the most stringent safety regulations, wakeboarding is still a dangerous sport. This is why the KWBT recommend wakeboard helmets and life jackets for everyone. You may look a little dorky, but they can save your lifeļ.
