Why Lifejackets ? ‣ 80% drownings could have been prevented
‣ Most happen close to safety ‣ 90% in calm weather and water
In 2014 78% 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 Booklet Check 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 Wear Lifejackets 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!