As it stands, over 50-percent of all new personal watercraft sales have been made by first-time buyers. These are folks who have never owned a PWC before in their lives. Statistically, they’re completely virgin to the ins-and-outs of maintaining, launching and even operating these machines. And its for this cause that we all must be increasingly cognizant of the people we share the launch ramp and water with.
Sadly, on Friday, June 11th, “deputies from the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department responded to a call for a boating incident at River Shore Estates,” according to a report in ParkerLive.com. Upon arrival, “medical staff from the Buckskin Fire Department and River Medical Ambulance were tending to the victim, Juan Pineda-Flores, 48, from Moreno Valley, California.”
According to witnesses, “Pineda-Flores was attempting to start a personal watercraft that was still on the trailer at the launch ramp. During startup, fuel or vapors inside the hull of the jet ski ignited, causing it to explode. Juan was ejected from the vessel into the water.” Pineda-Flores was immediately brought to the shore and given medical aid; he was later transported to the La Paz Regional Medical Center where he later died.
Fuel vapor can be a major issue with older or even modified personal watercraft. We strongly recommend removing the seats completely, or setting them loosely on the ski while being stored. This will allow the engine compartment to both dry after your most recent washing, as well as ventilate. We’ve seen too many accidents like these and encourage you to consider taking the extra step to be safe during this boating season.
