Tubing - Towing Turmoil by David S. Smith, Ph.D., Commander, USCG (RET) 'Tis time to dust off the water skiing gear, kneeboard and/or tube, so maybe it is also the proper time to look at towing tips: Always make sure (better double sure) that you have clearly told which folks in your boat are designated spotters if you are required to have them. Insure that everyone knows standard towing signals and you have practiced them before getting underway. When towing anyone or anything keep a corridor at least twice the length of the tow line clear on either side of the towing boat. This usually means having a 300 foot diameter safety circle with the towing boat at the center. Check any instructions on the tube or kneeboard or their packaging. This information usually indicates safe towing speeds, where/how to hold on, where to attach towing lines, etc. Don't disobey or exceed warnings printed on tubes and other towing devices. Insure that the boat operator can see well ahead (and close aboard too) as the towing boat "mushes" with a stern down/bow up attitude, before reaching plaining speed. Drivers need to plan their moves well in advance so as not to swing towed folks into other boats or stationary objects. Turn off the boat engine when swimmers are nearby in the water. Don't get into the habit of allowing swimmers to board by climbing over outdrives. The prop down there is very sharp! Insure everyone is instructed to stay where they fall off the skis or tube and to raise their hand so the driver/spotters can see them quickly and easily. Don't hit the sauce until you have hit the beach! Have fun-Live Long and Prosper! Dr. Smith's latest book, Water Rescue, is available by calling Mosby-Lifeline Publishers at (800) 426-4545. For upcoming seminar information, visit his website at: www.aquaticsafety.com. Got a question about boating safety? Post your question in one of our Boating Forums! Got a boating safety tip to share with others? Share it in one of our Boating Forums or submit an article about it and have it published right here on BOATOhio.com! Back to the top... Back to the Boating Safety Index...