Life Jackets:Appropriate fit and other common questions |
 |
Is
there a law about life jacket use?
As of 1999,
children under 12 years of age must WEAR a jacket on boats shorter than 19 feet
whenever the vessel is underway and the child is on an open deck or in an open
cockpit on any waters in the State of Washington.
In addition, a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device must be on
the boat for each person on board. Boats
16 feet or longer must also have at least one throwable flotation device.
What
is the difference in types of life jacket devices?
|
Type |
What kind of conditions does
it work in? |
Does it turn wearer face-up
in water? |
Fit |
|
Type I Off-shore |
Rough,
open water. Rescue may be
slow to come. |
Turns
most people face-up in water. |
Bulky to
wear. |
|
Type II Near-shore |
Calm,
inland water. Quick rescue
expected. |
Turns
some people face-up in water. |
Less
bulky. |
|
Type III Flotation
Aid |
Calm,
inland water. Quick
rescue expected. |
Floats
wearer upright in water. May
have to tilt head back to avoid going facedown in water.
|
Most
comfortable. Designed
for recreational activities like water-skiing. |
|
Type IV Throwable
Device |
Calm,
inland water. Quick rescue
expected. |
Not for
unconscious persons, children or non-swimmers. |
Can’t
be worn, must be thrown to victim. |
*Type V
devices include special use devices and some inflatable vests.
What should I know about life jackets for kids?
Selecting a PFD
Read the
label to be sure that it is Coast Guard-approved and is designed for the
weight of the child. Jackets with neck
pillows help keep the child’s head out of the water, which may reduce
panic if he or she does fall in the water.
A nylon hook on the back of the jacket provides a convenient way
to grab the child out of the water, should the need arise.
A strap that goes between the legs and hooks onto the front of the
jacket helps keep the jacket from slipping off the child.
Proper Fit
 |
All buckles and straps should be fastened. |
|
When a child is lifted by the shoulders of the jacket, it should be snug enough that the chin and ears do not slip through. |
|
When a child raises their arms the jacket should not come above the ears and chin. |
|
Inflatable jackets are not appropriate for anyone under 16 years of age. |
Try it out!
Children
will be more comfortable in emergency situations if they have had a chance to
practice wearing their life jackets. Teach
them to float on their backs while wearing a life jacket.
Children in and near the water
need to be kept in sight at all times.
Life
Jackets do not take the place of adult supervision.
Know when children should wear
life jackets.
Birth to
age 5: anytime when near or on water such as beaches, docks, boats, inner tubes
& riverbanks.
Ages 6 –
11: anytime when near or on water such as beaches, docks, boats, inner tubes and
river banks.
Teens to
adults: on boats and inner tubes.
How do I care for the life
jacket?
|
Let the life jackets drip-dry thoroughly after use. Don't dry a life jacket on a radiator, heater or any other direct heat source. |
|
A weathered-looking life jacket can indicate loss of strength. Store it in a dry, cool, dark, well-ventilated place. |
|
Don't put heavy objects on top of the life jackets or use it as a kneeling pad or boat fender. |
|
Don't alter the life jacket. If it doesn't fit, get one that does. |
|
Check life jacket for rips, tears and holes. Be sure seams, fabric straps and belts are all secure. |
Read about East Pierce Fire & Rescue's Life Jacket Loaner Program
|
East Pierce Professional Firefighters, Local 3520, is committed to the safety of the residents living in our district. We have life jackets for sale for children to adult. You can purchase one for $13.00 at East Pierce Fire & Rescue. Please stop by the station to be fitted for your life jacket. |
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