Rescue Water Craft (RWC)

3 members

Description

A group dedicated to the best practices and standards using Rescue Water Craft for occupational use. Commonly referred to as Personal Water Craft (PWC) for recreational enthusiasts, RWC's are now enjoyed in public service for water safety worldwide. If you have any questions regarding RWC use or application we look forward to hearing from you! Welcome aboard.

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Rescue Water Craft Operations - Throttle Application

by Shawn Alladio

Jan 2, 2016

THROTTLE MODULATION FOR RWC USE

Accelerating

 

  • Slowly pull in with finger applied the throttle (thumb or trigger types)
  • Do not pull throttle too fast on the lever, maintain even tension
  • Do not use throttle if the vessel pump is not in contact with the water
  • Vessel begins in a displaced weight load in water prior to accelerating from a stopped position

 

 

Decelerating
  • Slowly release the throttle to reduce speed
  • Remember turning may become diminished depending upon operation
  • Vessel will begin to feel heavy in the water as it transits from a planning speed to a displacing speed
  • Watch stern wake, from catching up to rear of craft

 

Water/Weather Conditions
  • Watch for swells, wakes, wind, water chop, spray, rain, any element that can change the needs of your operations, such as throttle response, weight on board, and safe speeds

Boat Characteristics
  • Trained operators need to have a fundamental operational awareness of 'off throttle steering (OTS)' or the SMART steering features and functions that may apply to their RWC. Not understanding this can lead to serious injury or a mishap caused by operator error.
  • Personal Watercraft expose the operator and passengers, it is an open deck hull
  • Handling characteristics change from water condition to hull configuration and type, weight capacity

 

NOTE: Water that pool’s in the foot well areas can change the trim of the boat at slow speeds

Or at a stopped position, watch your stern wake when slowing down. In 2009, cable less (sensor) throttles were introduced on certain production models, leading to technology design change.