Opodo travel news
Watersports more risky on holiday
27 Sep 2006
New research shows watersports in many popular holiday destinations can be unsafe.
A report by consumer watchdog Which? reveals that unsafe equipment and poor operating procedures put many holidaymakers at risk.
During the research 11 out of 18 watersports operators investigated in Corfu and Costa Blanca were rated as either unsafe or potentially unsafe by a Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents watersports safety expert.
Activities that were highlighted include jet-skiing, inflatable rides and parasailing.
Lorna Cowan, editor of Holiday Which?, said: 'It's not much fun having to spend your precious holiday time in casualty.
'We saw too many watersports operators who are making this all too likely with their total disregard for safety standards.'
Holiday Which? also gave tips on how to make sure watersports are safe.
Equipment should be stored out of the sun, with sand and salt rinsed off in fresh water, and properly-fitting life jackets and protective helmets should be provided.
Operators should have clear areas buoyed off for watersports and personal details and details of medical conditions should also be taken
Holidaymakers are also advised to steer clear of one-man operations as they are more likely to be unsafe, as the person in charge cannot act as a look-out, talk to customers and drive a boat all at the same time.
© Adfero Ltd
A report by consumer watchdog Which? reveals that unsafe equipment and poor operating procedures put many holidaymakers at risk.
During the research 11 out of 18 watersports operators investigated in Corfu and Costa Blanca were rated as either unsafe or potentially unsafe by a Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents watersports safety expert.
Activities that were highlighted include jet-skiing, inflatable rides and parasailing.
Lorna Cowan, editor of Holiday Which?, said: 'It's not much fun having to spend your precious holiday time in casualty.
'We saw too many watersports operators who are making this all too likely with their total disregard for safety standards.'
Holiday Which? also gave tips on how to make sure watersports are safe.
Equipment should be stored out of the sun, with sand and salt rinsed off in fresh water, and properly-fitting life jackets and protective helmets should be provided.
Operators should have clear areas buoyed off for watersports and personal details and details of medical conditions should also be taken
Holidaymakers are also advised to steer clear of one-man operations as they are more likely to be unsafe, as the person in charge cannot act as a look-out, talk to customers and drive a boat all at the same time.
© Adfero Ltd
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