Boating Safety – Lifejacket Basics

Life jackets available for every boating activity.

While boaters are required to have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket on board for every person on their boat, boating safety advocates recommend that everyone on board wears a life jacket at all times while boating. Accidents on the water happen much too fast to reach and put on a stowed life jacket. Drowning is the reported cause of death in 76 percent of all boating fatalities – and 84.5 percent of drowning victims in recreational boating accidents were not wearing a life jacket in 2017.

Life jackets available for every boating activity.
Modern life jackets are much more comfortable, lightweight and stylish than the bulky orange style most boaters know.
    
Life Jacket Fit

Make sure it fits

You don’t want your life jacket too large or too small. A snug fit is a proper fit. Remember, life jackets for adults do not work for children.

Make sure the life jacket is properly fastened
All straps, buckles or zippers are secure
Hold your arms straight up over your head
Ask a friend to grasp the tops of the arm openings and gently pull up
Additional tips including cleaning and storage tips check: