Water ski season is a wonderful time of year. There's nothing like hitting the water and enjoying the perfect weather as you try out new tricks on the water. However, the possibility of injury comes back into play and could ruin your entire water skiing season. Here are a few of the best essential water skiing safety tips to use this season.

Refresh Your Hand Signals

If you're new to water skiing, make sure you learn the hand signals used between the skier and the boat operator. Even if you've been skiing for years, take the time to refresh yourself on the signals. In addition, make sure you use them on the water.   See Signal Diagram below.

Inspect all Your Gear

Maybe you haven't been on the water for many months and your gear has been stored during that time. Before you hit the water this season, make sure you check your gear. Check the ropes, the skis, the handles, all your grommets and everything else. Ensure everything is ready for the new water skiing season and replace any worn out or broken items.

Ski Smart and Know Your Limits

You haven't hit the water in months. While water skiing can be a bit like riding your bike, don't think you can go right to maximum speed on your first pass. Make sure you start slowly and ski smart. Know your limits, as well, and keep yourself within your limits to avoid injury.

Take Lessons to Work on Technique

If you're new to water skiing or just a little rusty, consider taking a lesson or two. With the right teacher, you can work on the proper technique and find better balance on the water. Water skiing with the proper technique will ensure you get the most out of your time on the water without having to worry so much about injury.

Keep Learning and Keep Teaching

As a water skier, you can always learn something new. Even if you're very advanced, you can continue to learn new tricks, better technique and better safety. In addition, those in a position to teach children or beginners should always continue to teach.

Make sure you teach as the student's pace. If they are catching on fast, don't be afraid to challenge the student. However, don't push too far and always stress safety above everything else.

More tips for safety on the water during this water skiing season:

• Use a spotter to keep an eye on the skier

• Always use a personal flotation device

• Don't ski while under the influence of alcohol or drugs

• Avoid docks, swimmers, other boats, buoys and other possible hazards

• Keep ropes at the same length if skiing with a partner

• Always stick to safe speeds

• Stay aware of everything around you and be alert at all times

• Mark your presence after falling by raising one sky halfway out of the water

• End your skiing session when you're tired. Skiing when tired can lead to injury.

Before you hit the water this year, make sure you have all the essential water skiing safety tips necessary. You never want to ski without safety as the first priority.