What must you ensure before towing a skier or wakeboarder?

Before towing a skier or wakeboarder, it's crucial to have a spotter on board. The role of the spotter is to keep an eye on the skier or wakeboarder while they are being towed. This person can communicate with the driver about the athlete's condition and any potential hazards, helping to ensure safety for everyone involved.

Having a spotter significantly enhances safety by allowing the driver to focus on navigating the boat while receiving immediate feedback from the observer regarding the skier’s safety and readiness to be picked up. This is especially important in case the skier falls, as the spotter can alert the driver to slow down or take other necessary actions to assist the skier immediately.

While having a life jacket for each passenger, operating during daylight hours, and the presence of a second boat may contribute to safety, they do not fulfill the critical role that a spotter does in directly monitoring the activities of the person being towed. The requirement for a spotter is specifically emphasized in boating safety regulations to prevent accidents and ensure a quick response in emergencies.