Personal Watercraft Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of wearing protective eyewear when operating a PWC?

Answer: To guard against spray, debris, and insects at high speed

At PWC speeds, spray, insects, and debris can cause serious eye injuries; protective eyewear is a recommended safety measure.

How should fuel be handled when refueling a PWC to prevent a fire or explosion?

Answer: Turn off the engine and refuel away from open flames

The engine must be off and all open flames extinguished before refueling to prevent ignition of fuel vapors.

If a PWC operator witnesses a boating accident, what is the legal obligation in Alabama?

Answer: Stop, render assistance if safe, and provide identification

Alabama law requires operators involved in or witnessing an accident to stop, render reasonable assistance, and provide their name and registration information.

What effect does alcohol have on a PWC operator's ability?

Answer: It impairs judgment, balance, and reaction time, increasing accident risk

Alcohol impairs coordination, judgment, and reaction time, and its effects are amplified by sun, wind, and wave motion on the water.

What does a red triangular buoy with the number '2' indicate to a PWC operator?

Answer: The starboard (right) side of a channel when returning from sea

Red triangular buoys mark the starboard (right) side of a channel when returning from open water to port — 'Red, Right, Returning.'

Which of the following best describes a 'no-wake' speed for a PWC?

Answer: Idle speed that produces minimal or no wake

No-wake speed means traveling at the minimum throttle setting that produces minimal to no wake behind the craft.

What is the safest way to tow a water skier or tube behind a PWC in Alabama?

Answer: Only tow if the PWC has a rearview mirror and an observer onboard

Alabama requires a towing PWC to have a wide-angle rearview mirror and a spotter (observer) in addition to the operator.