Water tubing is all about big splash and lots of fun.
It’s one of the easiest water sports activities to try. People of all ages can enjoy ski tube rides with equal enthusiasm. Water tubing doesn’t require much strength or agility. It’s thrilling yet safer than other water activities.
Yet being on the water has its risks. It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt. Approx. 236,000 people drown every year worldwide. Surprisingly, it doesn’t take much to be safe on the water. A few simple precautions can help you have a blast without risks.
Let’s dive in (safely)!
Always Use Safety Kit
Safety gear is there to keep you safe and have fun. But most people overlook this aspect in the thrill of being on the water. Your life jacket, towropes, and the ski tube will keep you afloat.
So before even leaving the dock, ensure to put on the right fit jacket for you and other participants. In many countries wearing a floatation device is necessary by the law. Pay attention to the type of rope you’re using. If you’re tubing with multiple people, you need a thicker towing rope, which is also 50–60 feet long.
Learn about Your Gear
Every participant should check the equipment before making a splash. You can find instructions and recommendations on the gear for proper use. Learning about your equipment helps you to stay safe and take the necessary steps when in trouble.
Also, it will allow you to spot any defects in the gear beforehand.
Communicate in Advance
Once you’re on the tube or boat, it isn’t easy to hear one another due to the roaring engine. Discuss in advance using hand gestures to communicate for better safety. Agree upon using gestures about the start, slow, stop, okay signal and other things you might want to say.
You won’t believe the effectiveness of considering such signs before getting on board.
Take it Slow
Less speed is always safe, especially when starting your tube ride. Also, there are specific guidelines primarily accepted by the watersports community that you should consider. Such as, the speed limit for tubing is 20 mph or less.
You should ask the driver to adjust the boat’s speed if you aren’t comfortable with the current pace.
Use a Spotter
Using a spotter is another safety precaution to keep everyone safe and happy. As a rider, it isn’t possible to always keep an eye on the tube. A spotter is a mediator who can uninterruptedly communicate with tube riders and drivers.
Almost every country requires a spotter on the boat to ensure better safety.
Drive Responsibly for Safety
If you’re driving the boat, you must keep the tube away from the shore and other boats. Keep a safe distance from the rider and the boasts. As a general rule, keep the water ski tubes at least twice the length of the rope used away from the shore, buoys, and boats.
Ending Notes
Following safety rules is necessary if you want to relish riding the ski tube every minute. Especially with kids, you must keep safety first. The above tips will help you have fun and stay safe while having the time of your life.
Also, take some time to research the waterbody and nearby sites to be aware of the surroundings. It will help you prepare and find suitable safety gear for your fun ride.
There you have it! You’re all set to enjoy the ride. Happy water tubing.
