The below was copied directly from the California website for boating rules and laws and as you can see, I made bold the sentence which mentions that children (actually anyone) can easily fall off if not holding on tightly. Well...I don't get it...why not MAKE IT EASY for your passenger OR if you're usually the passenger, get the NUMBER ONE solution so NO ONE has to find a place to "hold on tightly"?
The obvious and best choice would be the patented and exciting new Grip-n-Ride H2O belt by LCSI. The belt, with its two comfort grips, is designed to be worn by the driver under or over his/her PFD giving the passengers a perfectly comfortable AND safe place to hold on regardless of anyone's size or age! The perfert solution to Personal Watercraft Safety! The waterways are filled with enthusiastic people enjoying the day on Waverunners, Jet Skis, etc. Make sure your passenger can enjoy the ride as well. See the Grip-n-Ride H2O at Grip-n-Ride.com...a MUST for ALL PWC enthusiasts gearbags! For a limited time only, enter code (gnr) at checkout to receive an instant $20 discount! GRIP-N-RIDE | RIDE TOGETHER!
- The majority of personal watercraft (PWC) related accidents occur when someone other than the registered owner is operating the vessel. Make sure that people borrowing your vessel know how to operate it!
- First time boaters are more likely to operate a PWC as they find it less intimidating than a larger craft, but in reality, the high maneuverability and the off-throttle steering issues can make safe operation challenging. Make sure they are also familiar with the rules of the road. California law states you must wear a life jacket when riding a PWC.
- Young children aboard a PWC are not a good idea. Riding in front, they often grab the controls, causing accidents. Riding in back, they can fall off if not holding on tightly.
- Remember that it is illegal to wake jump within 100 feet of another vessel, do donuts, or play chicken, or spray down other vessels.
- When riding with friends on other PWC, keep a safe distance from them, and also a safe following distance, behind them. Because these are jet-propelled craft, you will not be able to turn if you let off the throttle.
I'm fairly confident that most other States share same rules as California. If you want check your particular States rules for boating, simply search "Personal Watercraft safety rule for "your state"" and you should get a result.
Have fun this summer on the water! From all of us here at Grip-n-Ride!