OBS OBS Water Sports & Towing Safety 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: At what times of day is towing a water skier generally prohibited under US boating regulations?
- From one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise (Correct answer)
- Only from midnight to 4 AM
- Towing is prohibited only in fog, not at night
- Towing is unrestricted at any time if running lights are used
Correct answer: From one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise
Most states prohibit towing water skiers during low-light periods — typically one hour after sunset until one hour before sunrise.
Question 2: What should a PWC (personal watercraft) operator do if they fall off?
- Reboard from the rear of the PWC as indicated by the boarding label (Correct answer)
- Reboard from the side closest to them in the water
- Wait for assistance before reboarding
- Flip the PWC right-side-up from the front
Correct answer: Reboard from the rear of the PWC as indicated by the boarding label
The boarding label on the stern indicates the correct reboarding direction, which varies by model — always check your specific PWC.
Question 3: Which of the following is a common cause of propeller strike injuries during water sports?
- Starting the engine before the swimmer or skier is fully clear of the water and propeller (Correct answer)
- Operating at too low a speed during pickup
- Using too long a tow rope during skiing
- Failing to use a kill switch lanyard
Correct answer: Starting the engine before the swimmer or skier is fully clear of the water and propeller
Most propeller strike injuries happen when the engine is started or the boat is put in gear before confirming all people are clear of the propeller.
Question 4: What is the recommended action if a tow rope becomes wrapped around the propeller?
- Shut off the engine completely before attempting to remove the rope (Correct answer)
- Put the engine in reverse to unwind the rope
- Keep the engine running at idle while a passenger clears the rope
- Apply full throttle briefly to break the rope free
Correct answer: Shut off the engine completely before attempting to remove the rope
The engine must be completely shut off to eliminate all risk of the propeller suddenly engaging while someone clears the rope.
Question 5: How should a boat operator pick up a fallen water skier?
- Circle back with the skier on the operator's side so the skier remains in view (Correct answer)
- Back the boat straight toward the skier using reverse thrust
- Approach the skier from downwind at full speed and cut the engine at the last moment
- Have the observer jump in and assist the skier while the operator holds position
Correct answer: Circle back with the skier on the operator's side so the skier remains in view
Approaching with the skier on the operator's side ensures continuous visual contact and reduces the risk of the skier being struck by the hull or propeller.
Question 6: What does a boat displaying an orange or red flag (alpha flag) near towed water sports activities indicate?
- A skier is down in the water and nearby boats should reduce speed and stay clear (Correct answer)
- The vessel is engaged in commercial fishing
- A diver is below and boats should maintain 200 feet distance
- The vessel is restricted in its ability to maneuver
Correct answer: A skier is down in the water and nearby boats should reduce speed and stay clear
An orange skier-down flag signals that a person is in the water and approaching vessels must slow down and steer well clear.
OBS OBS Water Sports & Towing Safety 2
At what times of day is towing a water skier generally prohibited under US boating regulations?