In the last issue of Ontario Water Skier we got you thinking about
water ski safety.  These tips from the Water Ski Pro Guide (available
from the OWSA for just $3.50 - see pg 5 for details) offers a few tips
for a safe and fun summer on the water.

IN THE BOAT

1.	ALWAYS HAVE A COMPETENT OBSERVER
This is required by law.  The observer - or spotter - is the link
between the driver and skier.  And competent means your toddler child
does not qualify.  Whos competent?  In making this decision, think
about whether the individual could assist the skier in an emergency.

2.	NO SKIING IN LOW LIGHT SITUATIONS
This is also a law.  It is simply unsafe to tow a skier between a hour
after sunset and before sunrise.

3.	FOLLOW OTHER GOVERNMENT REGULA-
	TIONS ON THE OPERATION OF A BOAT
There are a number of other laws governing the operation of a boat.
These include, among others: 
-       reckless operation of a boat,
-       operating a boat while under the influence of drugs
	or alcohol, or consuming these substances while op-
        erating a boat,
-       not carrying DOT-approved Personal Floatation De-
	vices for every passenger in the boat,
-       in case of an accident, not stopping to identify your-
	self and offer assistance, and
-       exceeding any posted speed limit.

4.	FOLLOW COMMON SENSE RULES
Use your common sense in deciding if a situation has the potential for
an accident.

For example, allowing passengers to ride on the side of the boat, or in
the bow of a bow-rider, could result in an accident in the event of a
sudden turn or other maneuvers.

Don't drive a boat closely behind another skier for the obvious reason
that if that skier falls, you may not be able to avoid them.

Turn the motor off when a skier is boarding;  dont just shift to
neutral.  

FOR THE SKIER

1.	WEAR THE APPROPRIATE SAFETY EQUIPMENT

All skiers should wear a life jacket - or PFD - which will keep you
afloat in the event of a fall and provide some protection for your rib
and kidney areas.

Under no circumstances should the typical key-hole life jacket be used
for skiing.  These are awkward to ski in and a hard fall could result
in injury.

Other safety equipment could include a wet suit, helmet, jump pants
etc.

2.	WEAR EQUIPMENT THAT FITS YOU
Skis which are too big or small can cause frustration and increase the
risk of injury.  If you are using adjustable bindings, make sure they
are properly sized.  If theyre too loose, you will not have control of
the ski;  if the bindings are too tight, it may not release in the
event of a fall.

PFDs should also fit properly and have the straps fit snugly around
your torso.  A loose jacket, or one that is too large may be forced up
in the event of a fall and could trap a skiers arms.

Keep your equipment in good repair as well.  This includes bindings,
skis and PFDs.  And dont forget ropes - frays weaken the rope and could
result in a nasty fall.

3.	USE COMMON SENSE
This should be the water skiers motto.  
-	Don't ski if youre tired, 
-	Don't ski while under the influence of drugs or alco-
	hol and dont use these substances while skiing,
-	Don't climb the rope or have someone pull you in,
-	Don't take unnecessary risks by skiing close to other 
	waterway users or hazards, and
-	Don't overestimate your skill and/or experience 
	level.

4.	BE COURTEOUS
Stay well clear of other boaters, skiers and swimmers and never turn to
spray them.  Youll be protecting your own right to ski, as well as
avoiding danger if you misjudge the turn.