OBS Water Sports & Towing Safety Flashcards
6 cards from real OBS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 OBS Water Sports & Towing Safety flashcards as text
When towing a water skier or wakeboarder, what is the minimum recommended crew size?
Answer: Two people: the operator and an observer (spotter)
An observer (spotter) is required in most states so the operator can focus entirely on driving while someone watches the skier.
What does a downed skier in the water display to alert other boaters?
Answer: A raised ski or arm above the water
A skier in the water should raise a ski or an arm to signal their location to approaching boats.
What is the legal minimum age for operating a personal watercraft (PWC) in most US states?
Answer: 14 to 16 years old, depending on the state
Most US states require PWC operators to be 14–16 years old and to have completed a boating safety course.
Which type of life jacket is specifically required for water skiers being towed?
Answer: A Coast Guard-approved Type III or better life jacket
Water skiers must wear a Coast Guard-approved Type III or better wearable life jacket, as inflatable PFDs are not approved for towing activities.
How close may a boat towing a water skier operate to a dock, swimmer, or another vessel?
Answer: At least 100 feet away from docks, swimmers, and other vessels
The general guideline is to maintain at least 100 feet of clearance from docks, swimmers, and other boats when towing.
What signal does a water skier give to ask the boat to slow down?
Answer: Pat the top of the head with an open hand
Patting the top of the head means 'slow down' in the standard water skier hand signal system.