subject: Life Jackets Keep Boaters Safe [print this page] Life jackets are an important part of boating safety. Chances are, local laws require you to have the right number of these safety devices on board your vessel. However, they won't do much good if they are not worn. Accidents happen unexpectedly, and having a personal flotation device on could save your life.
There are different kinds of life jackets. If you love to feel the sun and water on your skin, you don't have to give it up just to stay safe; some life vests are not bulky at all. You might prefer the inflatable life jackets. These stay nice and compact until they contact water and then they inflate and expand. If you hate to wear a life vest, then you should consider an inflatable PFD so you can be protected.
To be effective, life jackets need to fit the wearer properly. Because proper fit is essential, children should never wear large jackets made for adults. Life jackets are made to hold you upright in the water and keep your head positioned so you can continue to breathe even when unconscious. For that to happen, there needs to be a snug fit under the arms and chin.
Your life jackets should always be maintained in good repair too. If one has broken pieces or has a leak, it will be useless. They should be checked for buoyancy at least every year and discarded if they don't work properly or are faded from sun damage. Along with making sure your life vest is in good condition and that it fits right, you should also buy a brand that has been approved by the Coast Guard so you know it will work effectively.
The Coast Guard requires a life vest for every person on board a boat, but it isn't mandatory that boaters wear them at all times. It is a best practice to always wear a life vest, but if you don't, you must have one readily accessible. You must be able to quickly grab a floatation device when your boat catches fire or is in an accident. So always keep them within arm's reach and don't store them in bags or cases you have to fumble with.
No matter what kind of water activity you enjoy, whether it is white water rafting, skiing, or just boating around the lake, it is always a good idea to keep your life vest on. Understand how each type of life jacket operates so you choose the best one. For example, inflatable vests may be the most compact, but they are only to be used by adults that can swim. Kids and non-swimmers should wear vests made out of foam.
Wearing a life jacket might be the thing that saves you life when an incident occurs. You might be knocked off balance when fishing, faint from an illness, be in a boat collision, or sink with your boat when it takes on water.
By having a personal flotation device for every member of your family, and making sure they are worn or within quick reach, you can rest easy knowing you are prepared if an unfortunate event occurs. Being a responsible boater means you take precautions to keep your party and other boaters safe, so everyone can have an exciting day of fun and avoid tragedy.
by: Richard Cliford
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