Getting ready to head out for some summer fun on the water?
In addition to packing a cooler, fishing rods, sunscreen, water skis and any other fun item, be sure to include enough life jackets. Don’t wait until an accident or a marine patrol check to find out, the U.S. Coast Guard advises.
The Coast Guard requires that each person on board a boat have a wearable, Coast Guard-approved life jacket, also known as Personal Flotation Device, that is the right size for the person.
If the boat is over 16 feet long, at least one additional Type IV throwable device must be aboard as well.
Adults need life jackets sized for adults. Children need jackets sized for them.
The life jacket requirement includes all boats, including boats under power, under sail, or powered by paddles. In addition, the life jacket must be in serviceable condition with no rips.
On personal watercraft everyone on board must wear a jacket. If being towed on skis or tubes, each person must wear a jacket.
Styles of jackets r...