Under what circumstances can you legally tow a person on water skis?

Towing a person on water skis requires adherence to specific safety regulations to ensure the well-being of those involved in the activity. Having a competent observer onboard is crucial as this individual is responsible for keeping watch over the skier and maintaining communication with the boat operator. This ensures that the skier's safety is prioritized, and any necessary actions can be taken promptly, such as signaling to stop or helping the skier back into the boat.

Additionally, having all safety equipment in place—such as life jackets, a first aid kit, and any required flotation devices—further enhances safety during this activity. Regulations often require that certain safety measures are in place when engaging in towed sports to mitigate risks associated with water skiing.

Traveling at high speeds can significantly increase the hazard level, but it does not inherently relate to the legality of towing someone on skis. Likewise, having no other boats nearby does not guarantee safety; the presence of an observer and proper safety equipment is vital regardless of other vessels in the area. Lastly, just having a designated driver is insufficient if the necessary observer and safety measures are not present. Therefore, the correct answer encompasses both the requirement for a competent observer and having all requisite safety gear onboard.