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Tips for Waking Responsibly with the WSIA

Nov. 7 2023 News By MacCallum's Boathouse

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Whether it's wakeboarding, water skiing, tubing, or wake surfing – these water sports offer a unique blend of excitement and adrenaline for riders, all in the naturally beautiful setting of the open water. 


Parallel to the thrill of water sports is the importance of water sports safety. Considering these best practices is not only necessary for all participants involved, but the environment and riders around you. 


One organization that plays a pivotal role in advocating for water sports safety is the Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA). They’re an organization and proud partner of MacCallum’s Boathouse that is dedicated to promoting responsible practices, regulations, and education within the water sports industry. 


The WSIA has fostered a culture of safety and respect on the water – their latest video on how to wake responsibly is full of safety tips for both boat drivers and sports riders. 


Read on to learn how everyone can safely enjoy water activities to the fullest while minimizing any risks that can be associated with the sport. 

WSIA: To Promote and Protect 

The WSIA (Water Sports Industry Association) is a leading advocate in the water sports industry, that develops best practices, maintains waterway access rights, educates participants, promotes safety in the community, and facilitates sustainable growth in the boating industry. 


There are four pillars of the WSIA that stand for the association’s overall mission and core values: 


  • Safety / Education

  • Risk Management

  • Events

  • Advocacy


In each pillar, the WSIA is dedicated to promoting these best practices in efforts to preserve the vitality of our activities long into the future. 


WSIA Resources & Water Sport Safety

No matter if you’re a skilled captain or a first-time boat buyer at an NH boat dealer – browse the WSIA website and you’re sure to find an abundance of resources and information to help you stay informed and educated on boating and water sport safety. 


The goal is to actively promote best methods and safety practices for boating and water sports of all types. When you’re ready to enjoy a wonderful day out on the water, there are a few core pillars of safe boating that WSIA wants every captain to keep in mind: 

  • Always drive your boat at least 200 feet away from shorelines and docks

  • When driving on the water, steer clear of other parked or driving boats and smaller watercraft

  • To minimize wakes, avoid repetitive passes along shorelines.

  • In general, respect your surroundings! This includes keeping music at a reasonable volume, picking up any trash or waste you leave behind, and being considerate of the time of day and the wildlife and residents around.


MacCallum’s Water Sports Responsibility Code further states these best practices and tips. They’re written to bring better awareness to boat drivers and water sports enthusiasts while helping to reduce the risk of injury or harm. 


Wake Responsibly: Boat Safety Tips from the WSIA

In the WSIA’s latest educational video, Travis with Wake Responsibly walks viewers through the best practices, rules, and regulations of enjoying a great day out on your boat. He touches on tips to help you maximize your fun on the water while feeling prepared and safe. 


Read on the learn some of the WSIA’s important boat safety tips and pointers to remember when waking responsibly out on the water. 


Boat Day Preparation Starts at Home 

Create a checklist to confirm you have all necessary items needed for your boat day…before you’re out on the water! 


A checklist could include items such as: 

  • Checking boat power and fuel 

  • Inspecting navigation lights & gauges 

  • Confirming you have your keys, boat registration and license handy 

  • Ensure all proper safety equipment (lifejackets, flares, first-aid kit, etc.) is on board


Additionally, on-shore preparation can also include communicating your boat day plans with a friend or family member. It’s always important to have someone know before heading out on the water! 

Double Checking Your Safety

For your next boat day, be sure to avoid alcohol consumption if you’re behind the steering wheel. Every boat needs a Sober Skipper! 


Especially when participating in all water sports, ensure boating life jackets fit properly for all passengers on board. For towed water sports, participants are required to wear Type III (Level 70) Life Jackets. 

At the Boat Launch 

Before launching your boat, take a moment to survey the boat ramp area. Position your vehicle and boat in a way that will make the boat launch process as easy as possible. 


When launching the boat, use clear hand signals and direct communication to ensure a smooth landing into the water.

Operating Your Boat Responsibly

The following are tips to stay mindful of while boat driving throughout the day: 

  • Depending on the type of water sport being played, adjust the ballast, line length, and boat speed. 

  • When towing water sports enthusiasts, boat drivers must follow safe patterns and speed limits. 

  • Be mindful of your wake and when passing shorelines. 

  • Show respect to fellow boaters, fishermen, and shoreline property owners when driving.

Wake Surfing Tips

First and foremost, all water sport players should make sure they’re using the correct rope for wake surfing. When towing a water sport rider, try to keep them on the boat driver’s side and visible at all times for clear communication. 


  • If a rider has fallen off, the universal signal of the “hands behind the head” means they’re good. 

  • Approach all riders who have fallen in the water carefully and slowly to avoid creating large waves. 

Returning Home Safely 

After you’ve completed a fun-filled day of sports out on the water, there are a few steps to keep in mind to return home safely. 

  • Drain the ballast tanks for easier driving and maneuvering up the boat ramp (similar to launching the boat).

  • Pull up to the dock or shoreline to offload any people or gear on the boat.

  • When ready to load, move the truck and trailer back down into the water slowly until the trailer is three-quarters submerged. Follow the boat dock’s specific loading instructions for proper procedures. 

  • Fasten and tighten up the straps on your boat trailer to secure it in place. 


Lastly, remember the family member or friend who you contacted to let know you were out on the water? Let them know you’ve safely returned back home! 


Water Sports Safety with the WSIA and MacCallum’s Boathouse

As a leading NH boat dealer in the industry, we’re proud to be partners with the WSIA as they work hard to make recreational boating safer, more accessible, and more attainable to those passionate about water sports and safety. 


For over 70 years, MacCallum’s Boathouse has brought happiness and safety to the hundreds of customers who have purchased new and used boats in New Hampshire! 


MacCallum’s skilled and passionate team of boat experts is trained to understand and support your boating needs and wants – we’re here to guide you through our large selection of Four Winns, Nautique, and Harris Flotebote boat models to help you find the perfect boat, every time. 


Ready to browse MacCallum’s boat sales? View our online showroom of new and used boats for sale in NH.