What Are the Dangers of Water Tubing With Kids?
Water tubing is a summer activity that many children love -- they cannot get enough of the thrill of bouncing over the waves and being pulled behind a motor boat. Water tubing is not without dangers, however. Tubing is only recommended for children ages 6 and up and it is important that both parents and their children are aware of the dangers of tubing before they engage in this activity.
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Falling off the Tube
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There is always a chance that the rider will fall off the tube during the ride. Falling off the tube while the boat is traveling at high speeds can be disorienting and if the child panics, he may not be able to swim to the surface. Children who cannot swim very well may be at a high risk if they fall off the tube into the water but even good swimmers should wear a life jacket.
Going Too Fast
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Children love the thrill of tubing and often express the desire to go faster. It is up to the parent or the driver of the boat, however, to determine the child's ability to hold on and stay safe and to keep the boat moving at a speed that the child can handle. At high speeds, turns and bumps become more extreme and if the rider is not prepared or if he cannot hold on to the tube, he may be injured.
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Crossing Wakes
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When boating on a lake rather than in the open ocean, it is likely that the boat will have to cross over its own wake or the wake of another boat at some point. Crossing the wake can violently bounce the tube and its rider and if the crossing is done at a high speed, the risk of injury increases. Drivers should keep an eye out for wakes and if a wake must be crossed the driver should significantly reduce the speed of the boat.
Insecure Tow Line
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One of the most important things to check before you begin tubing is the tow line -- the line that connects the tube to the boat. Use only a rope that is designed for tubing and check it often for signs of wear and tear. If the tow line snaps while the boat is moving at high speeds the tube may skid off uncontrolled and could collide with objects or boats in the water.
Irresponsible Driver
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Even if your child is experienced with tubing, he could still be put in danger if the driver of the boat is irresponsible. Make sure that the driver of the boat is familiar with the boat and its controls and that he has an understanding of boating rules and regulations. The driver of the boat should always remain alert and sober while driving and should maintain a safe distance of at least 50 yards from other boats and hazards.
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References
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