Why Lifejackets ?‣ 80% drownings could have been

prevented

‣ Most happen close to safety

‣ 90% in calm weather and water

In 201478% of fatal incidents

where cause of death was

drowning 84% of them were

NOT wearing life jackets

84% might have lived…

Who Needs Lifejackets ?‣ Everyone who is aboard a boat

‣ Coast Guard approved

‣ Properly sized

Types of Lifejackets‣ 5 different types of lifejackets

‣ Each designed for a specific purpose

‣ Many styles and designs

Type 1 – Offshore

‣ For large, rough and remote waters

‣ Have the most buoyancy

‣ Float an unconscious wearer face up

Type 2 – Near Shore

‣ Used in near shore waters where rescue can be close at hand

‣ Do not have as much floatation

‣ Built in collar

Type 3 - Flotation Aids

‣ Most popular type for recreational boaters

‣ For calm open waters

‣ Not designed to keep an unconscious wearer floating face up

Type 3 - Inflatables

‣ Light and compact

‣ Suspender and belt pack style

‣ Option for automatic inflation

‣ Not for use by persons under the age of 16

‣ Some inflatables may also be Type 5

Type 4 - Throwable Device

‣ For boats over 16 feet in length

‣ Store in a readily accessible place (within arms reach)

Type 5 - Special Use‣ Floater Suits

• Float Coats

• Survival Suits

• Swift Water Rescue Jackets

‣ Inflatable Versions

‣ Check Label for Approved Conditions

Find the Right Lifejacket for You!Suited for : ‣ Your on-water activity

‣ Expected water conditions

‣ Your body type and weight

Lifejacket Label and Instruction BookletCheck the label on the lifejacket for: ‣ US Coast Guard approval

‣ Type of jacket

‣ Intended use

‣ Properly sized for wearer

Fitting Child’s Lifejacket?‣ Match child’s weight to the weight

on the label (under 30 pounds)

‣ There ARE type 2 life jackets for infants

Verify the Fit‣ While the child has the life jacket

on, check for a snug fit and lift the jacket at the shoulders to be sure it does not ride up to ears or nose

‣ Water test

Fitting Adult Lifejacket‣ Match the wearer’s

chest size with the chest and weight size categories on the label

‣ Lifejacket should fit snugly.

Lifejackets and the Law‣ US Coast Guard approved

‣ Good condition, serviceable

‣ Appropriate size for the wearer

‣ Properly stowed

Stowage of Lifejackets ?‣ Readily accessible

‣ Put on in a reasonable amount of time (Within arms reach from the intended wearer)

Not Stowed Properly if… • In their plastic packaging

• In locked cupboards

• Under other gear

Lifejackets Should Be Worn At All Times

‣ May be impossible to reach

‣ A lifejacket is difficult to put on in the water

‣ In cold water swimming or even staying afloat will be very difficult

Activities and Lifejacket WearLifejackets must be worn when:

‣ Waterskiing or being towed and on Personal Watercraft

Recommended that life jackets are worn:

‣ Whitewater boating

‣ Sailboarding

‣ Stand-up paddle boarding

Children Under 13‣ Must wear a lifejacket when the

boat is underway (unless they are below deck in an enclosed cabin)

‣ States may have different laws boaters must follow

Final Word on Lifejackets‣ Choose a lifejacket that is

comfortable and made for your intended on water activity

‣ Wear It!