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Two cheap pieces of gear make every tow safer and, in many states, legal: a way to see the rider and a way to signal a rider is down. Don’t tow without them.
The observer flag
In many states you must raise an orange observer flag whenever a rider is in the water — preparing to start, fallen, or reboarding — so other boaters know to give space. It’s cheap, required in lots of places, and genuinely protects your people.
Wide-angle mirror or a dedicated spotter
A wide-angle tow mirror helps the driver keep eyes on the tow, but it does not replace a dedicated observer. Most states require a spotter (in addition to the driver) watching the rider at all times — the mirror is a supplement, not a substitute.
Know the local rules
Towing laws (spotter, flag, mirror, minimum age) vary by state. Check your state boating regulations and the U.S. Coast Guard, and keep approved watersports life jacket on every rider.