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Sun brings fears over jet ski riders
YOUNG jet skiers using Pevensey Bay are an 'accident waiting to happen' according to a resident.
Andy Pink, who has been a windsurfer for nearly 20 years, was enjoying last weekend's sunshine on the beach when he saw youngsters riding jet skis dangerously.
"We sat on the beach and watched accidents waiting to happen," said Andy.
"Nine jet skiers were launching from the beach and most were being driven by people without wetsuits or life jackets, despite the water temperature being less than 55F.
"There was also a blatant disregard for the buoy system to protect swimmers and to make matters worse some of the craft were piloted by children as young as 12 — it can only be a matter of time before a tragedy happens."
Andy's wife, Janet, said, "I understand people have been cooped up indoors and they want to go down to the beach and enjoy themselves in the sun but they need to be careful."
Sue King, watch assistant at Dover Coastguard, said, "Jet skis can be potentially dangerous machines — you must know what you are doing and wear the correct clothing.
"The water is very cold at the moment and if you come off your chances of survival are limited.
"People often think drowning is a concern but hypothermia could also occur."
A spokesperson from the Maritime Coastguard Agency said there are no age restrictions on jet skis but explained local authorities may have byelaws regarding age and speed limits.
A spokesperson from Wealden District Council said, "The yellow buoys clearly separate the bathing area from the boating area.
"It is vital to public safety that users obey the signs and stay the correct side of the buoys."
This comes after two young men were rescued by windsurfers when their kayak tipped over just off the coast at Pevensey Bay last Thursday (May 8).
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Weather for Eastbourne
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: -1 C to 3 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: North
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: -6 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: East
