New laws concerning the use of jet skis and other personal watercraft have recently been enacted to make it safer on the water.

• Personal flotation devices must be worn at all times.

• The kill switch must be connected to the operator.

• Never cross closer than 150 feet behind another boat when wake jumping.

• An operator must 14 years of age or older and possess a Boating Safety Certificate in order to operate a personal watercraft vehicle or jet ski.

• A personal watercraft vehicle or jet ski cannot be operated one hour before sunset or one hour before 8 a.m.

• Even rubber rafts, or dinghies, must carry a personal flotation device.

Although California does not require boaters to be trained in boating safety, the Delta County Sheriff's Marine Division offers a marine safety school each summer. For information on upcoming classes, call (916) 786-3633.