PWIA Launches 2nd Annual Safe Rider Program
WASHINGTON, DC — The Personal Watercraft Industry Association (PWIA) announced today that it is again promoting the responsible use of personal watercrafts (PWC) by encouraging safety and education.
Kicking off this Memorial Day weekend, the organization will launch its second annual Safe Rider program, educating users of PWC on safety and asking them to sign a pledge committing to the safe and responsible operation of their vessels. The pledge can be accessed online at bit.ly/SafeRider, or on the front page of www.PWIA.org.
PWIA first launched the Safe Rider program in 2013 with an inaugural on-water event on Lake Lanier, Georgia in partnership with state legislators and local businesses. Following the local event, a nationwide call to action was initiated. Safe Rider’s pledge form asks that all PWC riders agree to the take the following steps towards safety and fun on the water:
- Scan the water for hazards and other boats
- Avoid aggressive maneuvers
- Follow local boating laws, including rules to prevent the transfer of invasive species
- Examine your equipment
- React to conditions
- Insist on a safe distance from other boats, swimmers and fixed objects
- Drive sober
- Evaluate weather and waterways
- Respect the environment by avoiding fuel spills and operating close to marine life
The pledge form can be accessed at www.pwia.org, or bit.ly/SafeRider, along with more information about the Safe Rider campaign. Information on instructional courses and downloadable safety materials, including a brief handbook titled Riding Rules for Personal Watercraft and PWC Orientation Checklist can also be found at www.pwia.org.
