This week’s article was originally published by Sea Tow in May of 2015; but as we head into spring here in the lowcountry I thought it would be pertinent to post here. With three children, ages 7, 5, and 19-months, it seems as though we are constantly purchasing life jackets as they continue to outgrow last years.
Keeping Kids Safe On Board
Thursday, May 21, 2015
Memorial Day Weekend kicks off the summer boating season for many families across the country. If yours is one of them, it’s time to break that boating safety equipment out of storage and make sure the kids’ life jackets still fit. Here are 6 tips from the Sea Tow Foundation on how to help you make sure your child has what he or she needs to safe on the water this summer.
-
Must-have accessory. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, all children under 13 years of age must wear a life jacket when a boat is under way, unless they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin. (Note: State regulations may vary.). The Sea Tow Foundation takes this a step further by recommending kids wear a life jacket at all times when they are aboard a boat or even on the dock.
-
Let’s go shopping. While adults may wear the same life jacket for several years as long as it’s in good condition, children can outgrow their PFD (Personal Flotation Device) in the course of a single summer. If this happened with your children, now is the time to take them to a marine store to pick out new life jackets. If you plan to let them take friends along on your boat, we suggest buying an extra child’s life jacket or two as well.
-
Be size-wise. Don’t make the mistake of putting your child in an adult life jacket or inflatable belt-type PFD. Check the labels for models labeled Youth, Child or Infant, and be sure to select one that is right for your child’s weight category. Infant PFDs are designed with a high collar to keep the baby face up and head supported in the water; they also have a strap between the legs for added security.
-
Heads Up. Life jackets are designated