What is the only excuse for not wearing a life jacket?

A life jacket approved by the U.S. Coast Guard is the only item that is designed to keep you from drowning. Air-filled toys, such as water wings or inner tubes, should never take the place of life jackets.

Does everyone have to wear a life jacket?

Life Jackets and the Law Under California law, every child under 13 years of age on a moving recreational vessel of any length must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket in serviceable condition and of a type and size appropriate for the conditions and the activity.

How many people have died with life jackets on?

According to the 2016 Recreational Boating Statistics report (published by the USCG), 486 drowning deaths occurred in 2016 where life jacket usage or non-usage was known.

What happens if you dont wear a life jacket?

A lifejacket is your best defence against cold-water shock. Research shows that unexpected immersion in cold water is a serious risk to life if a boater is not wearing a flotation device. This is true despite the boater’s experience, closeness to shore, and even swimming ability.

When did life jackets become mandatory?

2002
Keep in mind the federal mandatory wear law became effective in 2002; The National Park Services also requires the mandatory wearing of life jackets by kids Under 13. Mandatory Wear for Personal Water Craft: Currently Fifty-five states require mandatory wear of PFDs.

How many years are life jackets good for?

If you keep it clean, store it dry and use it appropriately, a good PFD should last you 10 years or more.

Why should I wear a life jacket?

Wearing a life jacket can save your life! We recommend that everyone wear a life jacket at all times when near, on or in the water: when wading, swimming, fishing, boating or during any other water-related activity. You may not have time to put on your life jacket if you encounter a water hazard, slip while fishing or fall out of your vessel.

Should parents worry about their kids not wearing coats?

Kids say coats feel too constricting. For every parent who’s warned that going out in chilly weather without a coat will make you sick, there’s a kid who refuses to bundle up. But should parents worry that their coatless children are inviting in disease? Sixteen-year-old Karam Gafur refuses to wear a coat.

Do you wear a life jacket in a National Park?

Always wear a life jacket when on, in, or near water. Drowning is the top cause of visitor deaths in national parks. Yet, nearly all are preventable.

What are the different types of life jackets?

Inflatable: Inflatable life jackets are lightweight and comfortable to wear. They are only available in wearable, Adult sizes. This kind of flotation should NOT be worn by poor or non-swimmers. Hybrid (Foam and Inflation): These reliable jackets are available in Adult, Youth, Child and Infant sizes and wearable styles.