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RIDING YOUR WATER VEHICLEGETTING TO KNOW YOUR WATER VEHICLE

Riding your water vehicle requires skills acquired through practice over a period of time. Take the time to learn the basic techniques well before attempting more difficult maneuvers.

Riding your new water vehicle can be a very enjoyable activity, providing you with hours of pleasure. But it is essential to familiarize yourself with the operation of the water vehicle to achieve the skill necessary to enjoy riding safely. Before you begin to ride be sure you have read this Owner’s Manual completely and understand the operation of the controls. Pay particular attention to the safety information on pages 1-7 to 1-12. Read all caution and warning labels on your water vehicle.

Also read the Riding Practice Tips booklet supplied with your vehicle.

Remember: Your water vehicle is designed for one operator and one passenger only. Never have more than two people on the vehicle at any time.

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LEARNING TO RIDE YOUR WATER VEHICLE

Before riding, always perform the Pre- Operation Checks listed on page 3-3. The short time spent checking the machines condition will reward you with added safety and a more reliable water vehicle.

Check state and local laws before operating your water vehicle. Read the Boat Handling Instructions issued by the U.S. Coast Guard for basic safe boating infor- mation.

Select a wide area to learn in, where visibility is good and other boat traffic is light. Have someone in a boat accompany you if operating far from shore. Keep the proper distance from other boats and vehicles. Do not ride where people are swimming.

Always attach the engine stop switch lanyard to your left wrist before operating. You must always wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device. Strong streams of water from the jet noz- zle, or impact with the water surface can be dangerous. You must wear a wetsuit. Normal swimming attire may not adequately protect you. A wetsuit will help protect against internal injuries to orifices (rectum and vagina) from strong jet streams, and from impact with the water surface. Wetsuits also help protect against hypothermia (low body tempera- ture) and abrasions.

You should wear water shoes to help protect feet from objects hidden under water. Wearing gloves can also help protect hands from abrasions.

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