When picking up a skier, where should they be kept in view?

Keeping the skier in view while picking them up is crucial for safety and effective communication during the process. When the skier is on the operator's side of the boat, the boat operator can maintain a clear line of sight to monitor their movements and the conditions around them. This positioning allows the operator to react quickly to any issues that might arise, such as the skier falling or needing assistance as they are lifted back into the boat.

Having the skier on the operator's side also facilitates better communication. The operator can more easily gauge the skier's readiness and receive visual cues, such as hand signals, that indicate whether they are prepared to be picked up. This direct line of sight minimizes the risk of accidents or misunderstandings during the potentially hazardous activity of water skiing.