PERSONAL WATERCRAFT
(PWC)

One of the fastest-growing segments of the recreational boating community is personal watercraft (PWCs).  These light, agile and very fast vessels can be fun to operate; but can also be dangerous if not operated properly.  The number of boaters injured each year on America's lakes and waterways on these craft is increasing.  Please review this information and make sure that you don't become another statistic.  

Before you first take your PWC out on the water, make sure that you read the owner's manual, and you are thoroughly familiar with the vessel's operation.  The US Coast Guard, US Coast Guard Auxiliary, and the US Army Corps of Engineers, as well as the vessel's manufacturer all have publications that can assist you with the safe operation of your PWC.

Riding a personal watercraft is a "wet" sport.  You should expect to get wet and even end up overboard at times.  Some items are a must.  Others you may want to consider for an enjoyable outing.  The equipment you should carry on your personal watercraft is determined by state and federal requirements.  Before you take your PWC on the water, check the local, state and federal requirements to see what equipment is neccessary.

Due to the increase in accidents involving Personal Watercraft, legislation was enacted in 1999 by the Arkansas State Legislature.  The laws regarding PWC use can be found on the Arkansas Boating Laws page on this website.

Arkansas on-board equipment requirements:  

• Personal Flotation Device (PFD):  Each person operating or riding as a passenger on A personal watercraft MUST wear a PFD at all times.
• Fire extinguisher:  You must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved, Type B-1, fire extinguisher on board.  It must be readily accessible.   
• Whistle or other Sound-Producing Device
• Registration Certificate
• 3" high Registration Numbers
• Boating Safety Class Certificate (if born on or after January 1, 1986)
• Proof of Insurance

Recommended riding gear:  

• Eye Protection:  Water spray in your eyes can affect your vision.  Wear glasses, goggles or wraparound eye protection.
• Foot Protection:  You should wear foot protection.  This will help you keep your footing and avoid scrapes and bruises.
• Gloves:  Gloves will help you hold onto wet controls.  They can also provide protection during docking and loading.
• Wet Suit:  In cold water, you may want to consider a wet suit.  Hypothermia is abnormally low body temperature and is a real danger in cold, or even cool, water.
• Helmet:  A high percentage of injuries are to the head.  A helmet will provide protection.

Security of your PWC: 
The number of personal watercraft on America's lakes and rivers is growing.  With thousands of new PWCs on the water each year, they are a tempting target of thieves.  

• If you leave your PWC on a trailer, make sure it is locked securely to the trailer.  Take off one of the trailer wheels and store it in your car's trunk or use a trailer hitch lock.
• Always store your gear inside your vehicle where it is difficult for thieves to get to.
• Don't leave your keys in the ignition, even if you're going to be away for a minute.  Your PWC can leave without you in less than a minute.
• Don't leave your PWC unattended at docks or beaches.  
• Lock your PWC with a chain to others if you're with a group.
• Remember, the best advice is LOCK IT OR LOSE IT!  

SOURCE: This information can be found in the US Army Corps of Engineers pamphlet Boating Basics for Personal Watercraft.   

This page was last updated on January 7, 2007
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