Despite growing concern over these dangers, the BMIF says there is still only anecdotal reports of deaths and no hard statistics available on the extent of jet-ski injuries. In Greece, after a series of tragic accidents, a ban on all jet-skis is expected from the Greek Supreme Court. Jet-ski hirers are also obliged to fit the machines with an immobiliser, which can be operated remotely should a jetski get out of control. A bill tightening legislation controlling jet-skis is before the Cypriot government, which aims to reduce the use of machines and ensure permits are issued before they can be hired. And unless resources are allocated to back up the law, any new legislation will be of little value.
Most tragedies occur because of inexperience or failure to observe safety regulations.
But in a sport governed only by voluntary codes, enforcement is often difficult, in spite of the fact that these codes are there for the user's benefit. The ISA represents some 20,000 sailors, and has an impeccable safety record, but has always relied on education rather than legislation for the preservation of its members. But those taking part in organised sailing races are quite different from those who opt for the brief use of a jet-ski on a summer Sunday. Educating the casual PWC owner, attracted more by the cool allure of the jet-ski set than the mundanity of a safety code, still remains a challenge for the association. Most jet-skiers appear to be outside the ISA's club system, and bringing them within the reach of the ISA's 30 regional teaching establishments could help make bays and harbours safer places.