POLICE are warning jet-skiers to slow down – or risk being prosecuted. They are investigating two incidents in which users reportedly broke the four-knot limit in Havelet Bay and off Herm.

Chief Inspector Ruari Hardy said owners of speedboats and jet skis must take into consideration the safety of others.

‘We would want to ensure that all boat and beach users are kept safe and for that reason we will, where possible, enforce legislation relevant to these boats or craft,’ he said.

‘Before owners of such craft take them out, they should be aware that insurance is required and that offences can be committed if they are used at excessive speed.

‘Ignorance of the law is no excuse and where appropriate, we will take strong action,’ he added.

Year-round swimmer Vanessa Marsh said jet ski and speedboat users raced around Havelet Bay daily.

‘They do go extremely fast,’ she said. ‘So fast that I don’t think they are even looking out for us. Most people break the speed limit in that area.’

Guernsey Skiers Association president Jason Smith supported the police crackdown.

‘Offenders should be caught and dealt with,’ he said.

‘The reason we set up the club was to ensure that every jet-skier was abiding by the same laws, but we have only 20 members and there are about 80 jet-skiers registered in the island.

‘It’s a shame there are some who ruin it for the rest of us.’

The Environment Department has also received reports of windsurfers, board and kayak surfers having near misses with swimmers at Vazon.

A voluntary code of conduct operates for surfers, under which they are asked to remain in a certain area and keep at least 50 metres from the water’s edge.

Environment minister David De Lisle said: ‘The surfing zone at Vazon works well if people are courteous and show respect for other beach users.

‘Swimmers should stay well clear of the surfing zone.’

Deputy De Lisle also reminded sand yachters that they are not permitted on the foreshore between 10am and 7pm between 1 May and 30 September.