Views on the Uses and Dangers of Jet-skis

I recently read the article below on jet skis. My own view is that they would be an excellent for patrolling or as a rescue craft. Please read the article. It might be a little out of date but it offers an insight.

Jet-Skis
A recent review of coastal zone management co-ordinated by the DETR noted the need for legal provisions to keep up with developments (DETR 1999). The advent of jet-skis (also known as personal watercraft, or by their other trade names: wet-bikes, wave-runners, or sea-doos) would seem to be one such development. The fact that these 'one or two man' watercraft travel very fast (ie. over 65mph), can enter even the shallowest waters, and have little by way of launching requirements, make them worthy of special consideration.

Sales of jet-skis in Europe are unknown but in the USA the value of the industry is put at $1.4 billion and some 200,000 are sold there each year (Earth Island 1999). Their poor human-safety record has been recognised as a problem in Ireland for some time. I welcome comments.

'Save a Baby's Life'

This two hour session will take place in the Tir Hugh Centre in Ballyshannon on 16/4/2005. If you are in any way involved with babies ........... the feeding, the caring or the making of, then no excuses!! Contact Rita at Tir Hugh or Martin on his mobile. I did this course a few years back and what struck me was the willingness of parents (yes, Daddies too) to learn and participate. Good on you both, Martin and Rita! So, now go back to our 'Courses' page for all the details. http://www.lifeguardsireland.com/courses.htm