Life Jackets And Boating Safety
Friday, December 7, 2012
By Robert Cliford
Life jackets are an important part of boating safety. Your local laws probably require you to have these life saving devices on board your boat. Unfortunately, they don't do their intended job unless they are worn at all times while on the water. Accidents happen unexpectedly, and having a personal flotation device on could save your life.
There are several types of life jackets to choose from. If you love to feel the sun and water on your skin, you don't have to give it up just to stay safe; some life vests are not bulky at all. You might prefer the inflatable life jackets. These stay nice and compact until they contact water and then they inflate and expand. An inflatable pfd is the ideal choice for someone who hates to wear a life vest.
In order for inflatable life jackets to be effective, they have to fit properly too. Because proper fit is essential, children should never wear large jackets made for adults. A life jacket that fits correctly will hold you upright in the water and support the back of your head so you can breathe even while unconscious. The vest has to fit under the arms and chin snugly.
In addition, the life jackets must always be kept in good repair. One won't do any good if it leaks or has broken parts. Check them regularly, at least once a year, to make sure they are buoyant and not damaged from the sun. Along with a good fit and being in good condition, your life jackets should be Coast Guard approved so you can rest assured they will perform as expected.
Even though the laws require you to have a life vest for every passenger on your boat, it doesn't state you have to wear them at all times. Of course, it is best to always wear the safety device, but if you don't, it must be easily accessible. You must be able to quickly grab a floatation device when your boat catches fire or is in an accident. So always keep them within arm's reach and don't store them in bags or cases you have to fumble with.
It is a good idea to wear a life jacket when you are on the water whether you are out boating, water skiing, or white water rafting. You need to know how each kind of safety device works so you know which one to choose. For instance, the inflatable type vests are the most compact style, but they are best for adults that are good swimmers. Adults who don't swim well and children should wear vests that are made of foam.
A life jacket could save your life when the unexpected occurs. You might be knocked off balance when fishing, faint from an illness, be in a boat collision, or sink with your boat when it takes on water.
When you have a personal flotation device for everyone on your boat and make sure they wear it, you can be at ease in knowing you are prepared for the unexpected. Part of being a responsible boater means you take steps to ensure the safety of everyone in your group so the day is filled with fun and good memories rather than tragedy.
There are several types of life jackets to choose from. If you love to feel the sun and water on your skin, you don't have to give it up just to stay safe; some life vests are not bulky at all. You might prefer the inflatable life jackets. These stay nice and compact until they contact water and then they inflate and expand. An inflatable pfd is the ideal choice for someone who hates to wear a life vest.
In order for inflatable life jackets to be effective, they have to fit properly too. Because proper fit is essential, children should never wear large jackets made for adults. A life jacket that fits correctly will hold you upright in the water and support the back of your head so you can breathe even while unconscious. The vest has to fit under the arms and chin snugly.
In addition, the life jackets must always be kept in good repair. One won't do any good if it leaks or has broken parts. Check them regularly, at least once a year, to make sure they are buoyant and not damaged from the sun. Along with a good fit and being in good condition, your life jackets should be Coast Guard approved so you can rest assured they will perform as expected.
Even though the laws require you to have a life vest for every passenger on your boat, it doesn't state you have to wear them at all times. Of course, it is best to always wear the safety device, but if you don't, it must be easily accessible. You must be able to quickly grab a floatation device when your boat catches fire or is in an accident. So always keep them within arm's reach and don't store them in bags or cases you have to fumble with.
It is a good idea to wear a life jacket when you are on the water whether you are out boating, water skiing, or white water rafting. You need to know how each kind of safety device works so you know which one to choose. For instance, the inflatable type vests are the most compact style, but they are best for adults that are good swimmers. Adults who don't swim well and children should wear vests that are made of foam.
A life jacket could save your life when the unexpected occurs. You might be knocked off balance when fishing, faint from an illness, be in a boat collision, or sink with your boat when it takes on water.
When you have a personal flotation device for everyone on your boat and make sure they wear it, you can be at ease in knowing you are prepared for the unexpected. Part of being a responsible boater means you take steps to ensure the safety of everyone in your group so the day is filled with fun and good memories rather than tragedy.
Posted byBertie at 9:59 AM
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