Authorities investigate near-collision involving jet ski and swimmer at Lake Näsijärvi in Tampere

Authorities are investigating a near-accident involving a jet ski that nearly collided with a swimmer at Lake Näsijärvi in Tampere on Thursday evening. According to Arto Partanen, a crime commissioner from the Central Finland Police, the incident is being examined for serious endangerment of traffic safety.

A video capturing the incident shows a jet skier veering dangerously close to a swimmer. A report has been filed regarding the situation.

Ilkka Nissinen, a jet ski rental operator in Tampere, expressed his surprise at the video that circulated on social media last week. He noted that many social media users questioned the behavior of the jet skiers involved and identified a tendency to blame rental companies for such incidents.

Typically, complaints are directed towards rental businesses when jet ski recklessness occurs. Nissinen pointed out that his rental company utilizes GPS tracking on their jet skis, allowing them to monitor where the vehicles have been used and confirming that none of their skis were involved in the close call.

He emphasized the importance of providing thorough instructions to renters, noting that the rules are reviewed twice during the rental process. These guidelines specify safe operating areas and the required distances from shore and other water users.

Tuomas Salovaara, the port manager for the city of Tampere, stated that he regularly engages with jet ski rental companies and praised their professionalism. He reiterated the necessity for companies to effectively educate their customers about safety guidelines.

Nissinen remarked that it is particularly crucial to remind younger renters of the rules multiple times. In cases of repeated violations, he has had to deny rentals to certain individuals, highlighting the seriousness of the safety instructions provided.