NCJ Number
144261
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 41 Issue: 7 Dated: (July 1993) Pages: 63-68
Date Published
1993
Length
6 pages
Annotation
An increasing number of police agencies, particularly in Florida along the Tampa Bay and Gulf of Mexico, are conducting marine enforcement duties on jet skis.
Abstract
These agencies have found that having officers travel on jet skis allows them to complement the capabilities of high- speed boats and conventional equipment and makes economic and operating sense. However, jet skis are not ideal for rescue operations or patrols in open water, and their utility is limited in bad weather. Jet skis are quick, maneuverable, and can be used in as little as 6 inches of water. When deciding whether to operate jet ski units, agencies have to consider factors as varying as manpower resources, types of water in which the units will operate, and the damage salt water can do to police equipment and weapons. However, there are many advantages, including cost-effectiveness, minimal maintenance requirements, and officer mobility. There are collateral benefits as well: closer police-community interactions, modeling of proper jet ski safety techniques, and donations of equipment by manufacturers who want to promote their products.