Operate jet skis only during daytime, warns Bahrain ministry

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Staff Reporter

If gliding at high speeds over the high waves thrills you more than anything, ensure you are above 16 years of age and not dreaming about jet skiing at night.

The rules are according to the latest decision by the Minister of Transport and Communications to make jet skiing an enjoyable experience.

The ministerial decision also warns against racing using jet skis or performing dangerous stunts.

Most importantly, jet ski riders should not be below 16 years.

But, don’t worry! You could still tame the waves in the Kingdom if your guardians are with you on the machine.

Before hitting the water, ensure not to perform any dangerous stunts or display racing skills, as it will put you in hot waters.

“The age of a jet ski driver should not be less than 16 years unless his guardian is accompanying him on the jet ski,” said Kamal Ahmed, the Minister of Transport and Communications, warning no to race or perform “show-stopping movements” with the skis.

The minister was announcing a decision regarding amending some provisions of the registration and safety conditions and the procedures for obtaining a navigation licence and driving licence for small vessels less than 150 tons.

The ministry also has other directives for safe skiing Jet-ski drivers should maintain a distance of not less than 10 meters from other marine vehicles, and passengers’ should not exceed the limit specified in the registration certificate.

All jet ski passengers should wear life jackets, while the driver should wear a life jacket and a safety key around the wrist to stop the engine in an emergency.

Jet-ski drivers should stay away from prohibited areas, and public and private beaches and leave a distance of 100 meters from places designated for swimming.

The owner of the ship or jetski should not change its name or make any fundamental modifications that may affect its balance, dimensions, speed, sounds, or descriptions in the registration certificate, except with the approval of the competent department.

518 water bikes

According to statistics issued by the Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications, 518 water bikes were registered during the last year.

Jet skiing has become a more popular sport in the Kingdom.

This means that there are more inexperienced riders who have gained access to the rental equipment.

Along with increased access comes increased danger, as operators don’t always know the rules of the waterways or how to fully use their vehicles.

One of the most common causes of jet ski accidents is when the riders don’t follow operating laws.