National Safe Boating Week: May 22- 28, 2021
LIFE JACKETS
All recreational vessels must carry one wearable life jacket for each person on board. Any boat 16 feet and longer must also carry one throwable device.
Life Jackets should be worn at all times.
Life Jackets must be:
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U.S. Coast Guard-approved
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In serviceable condition
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Appropriate size and type for user
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Properly stowed
IN CASE YOU DIDN'T KNOW
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All life jackets that are U.S. Coast Guard-approved have an approval number. Look for it to ensure your life jacket meets the law requirements and is safe.
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You may see a new label on the inside of new life jackets with a performance level icon.
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Life jackets with the new label are approved for use in the U.S. and Canada, whereas devices with the old labels continue to be approved in one country or the other, not both.
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Life jackets you may already own may have the old “type” life jacket label (Type 1-Type V).
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The new label DOES NOT make obsolete life jackets with the old label.
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You can continue to use your life jacket as long as it is in good condition and appropriate for the activity.
BE AWARE OF THE NEW MEASUREMENT
Life jackets with the new label have a performance icon measured in newtons.
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Lower level number offers more mobility, comfort, and style with good flotation, and intended for near shore (calm water) activities.
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Higher level number offers greater flotation, turning, and stability in the water, and for offshore activities (greater time to rescue).
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There are areas where you may be boating near shore when rescue is hours away, and a higher level is needed.
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Be honest about your swimming ability. Poor swimmers may need a higher level to stay upright and easily tread water.
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