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August 5, 2005
PERSONAL WATERCRAFT USERS IN OHIO URGED TO PUT SAFETY FIRST
 COLUMBUS, OH - When riding a jet-propelled personal watercraft, it’s often easy to get caught up in the thrill of high speeds and the rush of enjoyment. But the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) urges personal watercraft users to put safety first when riding by taking a boating safety education course, understanding boating rules and getting experience with a knowledgeable user.
“Late summer is a popular time of year when we typically see the highest use of personal watercraft on our waterways,” said Ken Alvey, chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft. “Though our overall boating safety record continues to improve, boaters must continue to keep safety their highest priority while using personal watercraft.”
State law requires any person born on or after January 1, 1982 to show proof that they have completed an approved boater education course if they plan to operate watercraft larger than 10 horsepower, which includes jet-propelled personal watercraft.
State law also prohibits children under age 12 from operating a personal watercraft at anytime. Children ages 12 to 15 that have completed the boater education requirement may operate personal watercraft under direct adult supervision. Children age 16 and older may operate personal watercraft without adult supervision, but must have completed the boater education course.
All persons riding a personal watercraft must wear a life jacket. The personal watercraft may not be operated between sunset and sunrise anywhere in Ohio. Additional information about state boating rules, requirements and education programs can be found on the ODNR web page at ohiodnr.com.
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