Posted By Gail Kulp,
Thursday, May 27, 2021
Updated: Monday, May 10, 2021
National Safe Boating Week Tip #6 - Wear Your Life Jacket
Wearing a life jacket is the single most important thing you can do to improve your safety on board a boat. According to the U.S. Coast Guard’s most recent Recreational Boating Statistics report, 79% of fatal boating accident victims drowned. Of those drowning victims, 86% were not wearing a life jacket. In other words, 8 out of 10 lives would have been saved had the people been wearing life jackets.
The Sea Tow Foundation and U.S. Coast Guard recommend that boaters wear life jackets at all times because you can never predict when you’ll need them. You can’t put on a seatbelt in a car while you are in the middle of a car accident, and you won’t be able to put on a life jacket in the middle of an on-water emergency either. Wearing it is the best option.
Modern life jackets are designed to be comfortable to wear and some kid’s models are colorful and feature fun themes, which help make children want to wear them. The two most important pieces to check is that 1) the life jackets are U.S. Coast Guard approved and 2) the life jackets are the proper size for the person wearing them. A child can’t wear an adult-size life jacket because they will slip out of it in the water and an adult would never float if they were hanging onto a child-size life jacket.
Inflatable life jackets are also an option for those at least 16 years of age. They can be worn on the waist or like a pair of suspenders so that they are out of the way until they are needed, but they must be worn to be approved. Also, if you plan to go white water kayaking, wake boarding, riding a PWC, or participating in any other activity with high impact, an inflatable life jacket is not an option.
If you don’t have enough life jackets for everyone on board or don’t want to purchase a life jacket for a one-time boat visitor, don’t worry. The Sea Tow Foundation has established over 750 life jacket loaner stations throughout the United States where boaters can easily borrow and return life jackets in all sizes to ensure that they have the right size for everyone on board. You can find a life jacket loaner station near you at www.boatingsafety.com/map.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Tuesday, May 18, 2021
Updated: Monday, May 10, 2021
Top 10 Times When You Should Absolutely, Positively Wear a Life Jacket
Statistically speaking, boating is one of the safest outdoor activities, but because the participants are surrounded by water, there is always the possibility someone can end up in it. The Sea Tow Foundation and U.S. Coast Guard recommend boaters wear life jackets at all times, because you can never predict when you’ll need them. If you don’t have enough for everyone on board, the Sea Tow Foundation has established a nationwide Life Jacket Loaner Program with over 750 loaner stations where life jackets are available to be borrowed and returned at no charge to help keep boaters safe.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard’s most recent Recreational Boating Statistics report, where the cause of death was known, 79% of fatal boating accident victims drowned. Of those drowning victims with reported life jacket usage, 86% were not wearing a life jacket. This means that your odds are nearly 9 out of 10 that a life jacket will save your life, so it is important to know when it should be worn.And we have the top 10 times when it should definitely be worn.
When it is the Law
Each state and territory within the U.S. determines the age requirements for wearing life jackets, therefore it is important to so check resources like the Sea Tow Foundation’s blog post on the topic that lists each state’s regulations. When operating in federal waters, the Coast Guard requires children under 13 to wear a properly fitting life jacket whenever a boat is underway unless the children are in a cabin.
When the Boat is Moving
According to recent statistics, 78 percent of boats involved in accidents are moving, a good starting point would be to ask guests to wear life jackets whenever the boat is at cruising speed. Accidents can cause the boat’s occupants to fall into the water and those not wearing jackets are at a much greater risk of drowning.
When on a Small Boat
Most drownings occurred on boats that were less than 16 feet long, according to U.S. Coast Guard statistics. These boats are typically less stable and are more affected by wind, waves and other boat’s wakes. Many state regulations mandate the use of life jackets when operating small vessels like personal watercraft and canoes, but even if it’s not required, it makes good sense to wear them.
When Boating in Rough Water
Experienced boaters know the wind and waves can kick up suddenly, especially if a storm is on the way. During these times, it’s especially important to wear life jackets. Though rare, if a boat becomes swamped or capsizes, those who are wearing jackets are far safer. This also holds true whenever boating in whitewater conditions.
When Boating in Cold Water
Boaters who end up in cold water are subject to greater danger than when in warm water. First, cold water shock immediately takes effect which causes a person to hyperventilate and, in some cases, panic. This goes away within the first few minutes, but motor function can quickly be lost making putting on a life jacket nearly impossible, causing a victim to drown long before hypothermia sets in. Wearing a life jacket is a good idea and is the law in many states during cold weather months. Just remember that the water can be cold even if the air temperature is warm, so be sure to dress for the water temperature in case you fall in.
When the Driver of a Boat is New to the Sport
When a new boater is learning how to operate the boat, they may perform maneuvers that are not as smooth as someone who has had a lot of practice. This isn’t much different than when a new driver learns how to drive a car, but the biggest different is that boats don’t have brakes or turn signals. The jerky movements of the boat could cause someone in the boat to be thrown overboard unexpectedly and it is better to have the life jacket on while they are learning.
When the Person Can’t Swim or is a Weak Swimmer
If a person onboard a boat can’t swim or is a poor swimmer, they should definitely wear a life jacket at all times. There is no guarantee that someone will see them fall overboard and be able to throw something to them or be able to go after them in an emergency.
When Participating in Watersports
In most states, the law requires the use of life jackets when engaged in watersports like skiing, tubing and wake surfing. Just make sure that the life jackets are designed for impact and supposed to be used in these types of activities. This means that inflatable life jackets are not approved for these activities.
When Moving Fast
You’ll never see a professional boat racer hurtling down a waterway at 70 mph+ without wearing a life jacket. High speeds make a vessel less stable and more prone to adversely reacting to waves which increases the chance of the boat flipping. Physical injury during a mishap at high speed could render the boater unconscious or unable to swim. Be like the pros and always wear a life jacket when going fast.
When Boating Alone or At Night
Operating a boat along presents its own set of challenges. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, many mishaps that send a person overboard occur while the person is performing a task like setting an anchor, throwing a net or catching a fish. And if the person is the only one on board, there's no one else there to provide reboarding assistance. This is especially hazardous if the boat is moving like when trolling for fish. And nighttime operation has another set of challenges in being unable to see submerged objects or other hazards in the water. A good idea for solo boaters and/or nighttime boaters is to employ a wireless engine cut-off switch that will comply with the newly enacted federal law while allowing the wearer to still move freely around the boat. And to always have a life jacket on at all times.
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Remember, life jackets save lives, but only if you are wearing them. Can you think of any other time that a boater should definitely be wearing a life jacket? Tell us in the comments.
If you found this article helpful or entertaining, please consider a
donation to the Sea Tow Foundation today to help us continue our efforts
to educate boaters and keep them safe on the water. You can donate
securely online at www.boatingsafety.com/donatetoday or by clicking on the DONATE tab at the top of the page.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
Updated: Tuesday, January 26, 2021
Top 5 Boating Safety Trends
At the Sea Tow Foundation, our entire mission is to provide access to education, tools and resources in order to eliminate preventable recreational boating accidents and deaths. This year, we have compiled a list of the top 5 boating safety trends to pay special attention to as you take your vessel out on the water.
1) Wear Life Jackets
Every year, there are too many drownings that could have been prevented by the use of a life jacket. Not only is it required by law to have one life jacket per person on board the boat, but it can make a life or death difference during an emergency. It does not matter how strong a swimmer a person might be. Life jackets are the key to boating safety.
If you or one of your passengers does not have a life jacket for a day out on the boat, take a look at the Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Database to find a Life Jacket Loaner Station near you. Life Jacket Loaner Stands are placed in locations where boaters have easy access to borrow the life jackets such as boat ramps, marinas, and fuel docks. Boaters may borrow the jackets at no cost and are asked to return them when they are finished so that others may use the life jackets.
2) Designate a Sober Skipper
Boating under the influence is against the law in every state and territory. The operator of a boat must be alert and be able to pay attention to their surroundings. And with already having to deal with the wind, vibration, noise, and the sun, adding alcohol to the situation makes matters dangerous and deadly. By taking the Sober Skipper Pledge and designating a sober skipper before leaving the dock, you are promising to take care of your passengers and yourself, ensuring that everyone can have a safe and fun time on the water.
3) File a Float Plan
A float plan is a great way to provide an overview of your boating plans for the day. This can be as simple as a note or text to a friend staying back on land and it can help give the authorities a head start in looking for you, should a problem arise. A float plan should include a description of your boat, the number of passengers onboard, the starting point, the ultimate destination, and the general route planned. You also want to include contact information for the authorities and a timeframe, so that if you aren’t back at the designated time, you know that your friend will call for help. All of this is a good way to prepare and know that someone can find you in case of an emergency. The U.S. Coast Guard's free mobile app has a float plan that you can fill out and send to family and friends.
4) Know Local Boating Laws
Every state has its own laws for boating. Make sure that before you cast off, you know what is expected of you and your passengers. Are there certain places you can and cannot fish or certain times when fishing isn’t allowed? Do you have to wear a life jacket during certain cold weather months and what age is required to wear a life jacket at all times? Who is required to take a boating safety course and carry a certificate in this state? These are things you have to be certain of before heading out on the water so that you don’t get a citation. Check out our recent article on how to find out your state's boating laws by clicking here.
5) Build Your Safety Toolkit
Being safe out on the water is much easier when you have the right tools available for the right situation. By keeping an up-to-date safety toolkit, you can make sure that, if an emergency should arise, you and your passengers will be able to face it properly. A well-stocked toolkit should include emergency flares, a flashlight, a first aid kit, some non-perishable food, extra drinking water, rain and cold weather clothing, a bailing bucket, rope, a paddle, a whistle, and an emergency blanked. All of these items should be packed in a waterproof case that will float so that you can have access to everything no matter what happens. Reach out to our friends at the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and America’s Boating Club to schedule a free Vessel Safety Check before your next boating trip!
What do you see as a top boating safety trend in your local waterways? Share in the comments below.
If you found this article helpful or entertaining, please consider a
donation to the Sea Tow Foundation today to help us continue our efforts
to educate boaters and keep them safe on the water. You can donate
securely online at www.boatingsafety.com/donatetoday or by clicking on the DONATE tab at the top of the page.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Wednesday, January 6, 2021
Updated: Monday, December 21, 2020
Winter Storage Tips for Life Jackets
Picture it: Spring weather has arrived, and you and your family are getting ready for the first boating trip of the year! You have all been talking about it for the past week. The cooler is packed, your gear bag is loaded, and the boat is ready to go in the water. As you take out the life jackets, you notice the smell first. After simply throwing the life jackets in the garage last season, a moldy mildew smell took hold. The fabric has torn and the foam inside of the life jackets has hardened.
An amazing day on the water can be stopped in its tracks if you do not take the time to take proper care of your life jackets today. The Sea Tow Foundation wants to help you extend the life of your life jackets – so you do not need to buy a new one each season. Here are 5 tips to consider regarding your life jacket care during the off-season.
Make sure that your life jacket is stored in a cool, dry place away from the elements. There are many zippered pouches on the market that can help store your life jacket as well.
Allow the life jacket to fully dry in open air before storing it. This will help prevent the growth of mold and keep your life jacket in good shape before your next use.
Allow for adequate ventilation. As opposed to placing them in a box , try hanging your life jackets off the ground to help air circulate.
Do not place your life jacket direct in front of a heat source to dry. This can cause damage to the vinyl and plastic parts on the jacket.
Do not store your life jackets outdoors, or in areas that are not temperature controlled. A life jacket outdoors can be rained or snowed on, which doesn’t allow it to stay dry. And if a life jacket has any moisture in it and is stored in an unheated garage or shed, the foam could freeze if temperatures reach below freezing. Do not store inflatable life jackets and their cartridges in below zero temperatures. If you must store life jackets in an unheated area, make sure they are completely dry for at least a week inside the house and remove the CO cartridge from inflatable life jackets before they go into storage.
By taking a few simple steps to ensure that your life jacket is stored correctly now, you can help make sure that your life jacket will be ready for you when spring comes!
And remember, before putting on a life jacket, take a moment to inspect it. Is there anything broken or damaged? Is there mold or mildew? Are the bobbins and pins operating properly on your inflatable vest showing that it is properly recharged?
Where do you store your life jackets during the off-season? Let us know in the comments below.
If you found this article helpful or entertaining, please consider a
donation to the Sea Tow Foundation today to help us continue our efforts
to educate boaters and keep them safe on the water. You can donate
securely online at www.boatingsafety.com/donatetoday or by clicking on the DONATE tab at the top of the page.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Monday, November 9, 2020
Updated: Tuesday, November 3, 2020
What to Do With Your Kid’s Outgrown Life Jackets
When a young boater outgrows their life jacket, what can you do with it? Or when you decide to get yourself a new inflatable life jacket, what should be done with your foam one? The Sea Tow Foundation has been utilizing new and gently used life jackets to save lives as a part of our Life Jacket Drive. The drive employs these donations in Life Jacket Loaner Stations that can be found across the country.
Before adding a donated life jacket to the Life Jacket Loaner Station, each one is inspected thoroughly and you can also use the same checklist before you donate your life jacket.
Check to make sure the life jacket is U.S. Coast Guard-approved on the label.
Ensure that all zippers, buckles, straps and other fasteners are working properly.
Make sure that there are no rips, tears or mold on the life jacket.
Confirm that the life jacket’s flotation foam is not damaged – so it can float properly in water.
Here’s a tip: By holding a life jacket underwater, you can make sure it will float back to the surface.
Once you check that your gently used life jacket meets the conditions listed above, it can be repurposed by the Sea Tow Foundation to help make sure that boaters everywhere can have a safe and enjoyable time out on the water.
If your life jacket does not meet even one of the conditions above, discard the life jacket and ensure that it is not going to be used by cutting it apart into pieces before putting in the trash.
It is important that all boat passengers have a life jacket that fits them perfectly. By donating your gently used life jackets, you can help bring the joy of boating to other people right in your local community.
If you have a life jacket that no longer fits your boat’s passengers, please fill out this form and donate them to the Sea Tow Foundation.
If you found this article helpful or entertaining, please consider a
donation to the Sea Tow Foundation today to help us continue our efforts
to educate boaters and keep them safe on the water. You can donate
securely online at www.boatingsafety.com/donatetoday or by clicking on the DONATE tab at the top of the page.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Monday, August 10, 2020
Updated: Thursday, August 6, 2020
PRESS RELEASE
Sea Tow Foundation Needs Your Input to Build a National Database of Life Jacket Loaner Stations
The Sea Tow Foundation – a national nonprofit dedicated to the education and awareness of safe boating practices – announced today that it is collecting data from individuals and organizations around the country that operate life jacket loaner stations in an effort to create a national database of their locations.
As part of a grant through the Sport Fish Restoration & Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard, the Sea Tow Foundation operates more than 650 life jacket loaner stations nationwide. An online map at www.boatingsafety.com/map was developed and maintained by the Foundation of their loaner stations as part of this grant as well. Unfortunately, there is not a national registry or map for all of the life jacket loaner stations operated by state agencies and other non-profit groups around the country, so the Sea Tow Foundation included the development of a national-level database into this year’s grant and hopes to register thousands more loaner stations throughout the U.S. over the coming months.
Individuals and organizations that want to have their life jacket loaner stations included in the database can submit their information via the following link: www.boatingsafety.com/lifejacketdatabase. The deadline for submissions is September 30, 2020.
“Preventing drowning is one of the main goals of the Sea Tow Foundation and it is the reason why we started the Life Jacket Loaner Program in 2008,” said Gail R. Kulp, executive director for the Sea Tow Foundation. “The purpose of the Life Jacket Loaner Station Database is to allow any boater within the U.S. to find a place where life jackets can be borrowed and returned, free of charge, so that everyone can have a safe and fun time on the water.”
The Life Jacket Loaner Station Database will offer an interactive map for boaters to find the nearest Life Jacket Loaner Station to their location. Different colored markers on a map will provide the exact address, the host organization for the station, and the name of the marina, park, boat ramp, etc. where it can be found. Life Jacket Loaner Stations are typically placed in locations where boaters will have easy access to life jackets, but they may also be available at local fire departments, community centers, and through the local marine law enforcement officers.
If you found this article helpful or entertaining, please consider a
donation to the Sea Tow Foundation today to help us continue our efforts
to educate boaters and keep them safe on the water. You can donate
securely online at www.boatingsafety.com/donatetoday or by clicking on the DONATE tab at the top of the page.
Posted By Michael Wesolowski,
Friday, May 29, 2020
Updated: Thursday, May 7, 2020
Boating Safety Frequently Asked Questions
The Sea Tow Foundation has assembled a list of answers to questions we hear most often. If the answer to your question is not listed here it may be in another post on our blog - try searching our blog for that topic. You can also ask your question in the comment section and we will be sure to add it.
How to Boat Safely and Socially Distance During COVID 19
A: Everyone’s life has changed as a result of the Coronavirus, but boating can still be a wonderful activity to participate in while practicing social distancing. The Sea Tow Foundation wants to encourage you to get out on the water and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, but we ask that you do it safely and legally. We’ve compiled a list of 10 Dos and Don’ts to help you plan a great day on the water. Click this link for details.
What life jackets are required to be carried on my recreational boat?
A: In general, Federal law requires that you must have a Coast Guard-approved, wearable life jacket that is in good and serviceable conditions and of the appropriate size for each person onboard your vessel. In addition, boats greater than 16 feet in length must carry a Coast Guard-approved throwable device (Type IV). A throwable device is not required on canoes or kayaks regardless of length. For more information on exemptions and the proper use of life jackets, click this link.
When should I wear my Life Jacket?
A: The USCG recommends wearing your life jacket at all times when the boat is underway.
What are the federal regulations for life jacket wear for children?
A: On a vessel that is underway, children under 13 years of age must wear an appropriate U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket unless they are below deck or within an enclosed cabin. If a state has established a child life jacket wear requirement that differs from the Coast Guard requirement, the state requirement will be applicable on waters subject to that state's jurisdiction. Contact your state boating authority for more information.
Am I required to carry a Life Jacket on my Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP).
A: Yes, when used beyond the narrow limits of a swimming, surfing or bathing area a SUP is considered a vessel and is required to carry a life jacket for everyone on board like any other boat.
Who can wear a Coast Guard-approved inflatable Life Jacket?
A: Inflatable life jackets are generally intended for persons over 80 lbs (39kg). To meet life jacket carriage requirements, the intended wearer must be over 16 years of age. See the life jacket’s label for more information.
Is my boating safety certificate valid to operate a boat in another state?
A: In most cases, yes. However, there are a few states that do not honor a certificate obtained outside of their state. Always check the state laws where you will be boating to ensure your current certificate will be accepted.
How do I dispose of expired pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals (VDS) or marine flares?
A: The disposal of expired pyrotechnic devices should be done in accordance with local county and state hazardous waste regulations. Please check with these local authorities to obtain the correct disposal procedures.
How do I register my Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) and Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or submit an updated registration form?
What Visual Distress Signals must I carry on my boat?
A: Visual distress signals are required to be carried onboard vessels operating on the Great Lakes, High Seas, Territorial Seas and connecting waters seaward of a point where the width of the entrance exceeds 2 nautical miles, with certain exceptions. For more information on the types and quantities required and proper use of visual distress signals, click this link.
What is a Vessel Safety Check?
A: A Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is a courtesy examination of your boat (vessel) to verify the presence and condition of certain safety equipment required by state and federal regulations. The volunteer VSC examiner may also make recommendations and discuss safety issues that can make you a safer boater. No citations will be given if the boat does not pass. The examiner will supply you with a copy of the evaluation so that you may follow up with any recommendations. Vessels that pass the examination will be able to display the distinctive VSC decal. The decal does not exempt boaters from law enforcement boarding but indicates to boarding officers that the boat has been examined and found to be in compliance with safety equipment regulations. Vessel Examiner is a trained volunteer specialist and a member of either the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, United States Power Squadrons, or in some cases state volunteer examiners.
When should I file a float plan?
A: You should complete a float plan and leave it with a responsible party each and every time you get underway.
When should I turn on or display my navigation lights?
A: Navigation lights are to be turned on or displayed from sunset to sunrise and when operating in or near areas of restricted visibility (e.g., fog, snow, and heavy rain).
Do I need a horn on my boat?
A: Navigation Rules require sound signals to be made under certain circumstances, such as meeting, crossing, and overtaking other vessels. Recreational vessels are also required to use sound signals during periods of reduced visibility and while at anchor. See A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats for the types of sound producing devices required for your specific vessel. A vessel of less than 39.4 feet (12 meters) must, at a minimum, have some means of making an efficient sound signal (i.e., handheld air horn, athletic whistle, installed horn, etc.). A human voice is not acceptable. A vessel 39.4 feet (12 meters) or greater must have a sound signaling appliance capable of producing an efficient sound signal, audible for a mile, with a 4- to 6-second duration.
Do you have any other questions? Try searching our blog or ask your question in the comments below.
If you found this article helpful or entertaining, please consider a
donation to the Sea Tow Foundation today to help us continue our efforts
to educate boaters and keep them safe on the water. You can donate
securely online at www.boatingsafety.com/donatetoday or by clicking on the DONATE tab at the top of the page.
Posted By Michael Wesolowski,
Thursday, April 30, 2020
Updated: Wednesday, April 22, 2020
Boating Under the Influence & Life Jacket Age Reference State by State
Use this quick table for boating under the influence (BUI) limits, penalties, and life jacket age requirements from each state and territory in the United States.
The US Coast Guardrequires properly fitting life jacketsbe readily accessible and within reach of all passengers on board, along witha throwable floatation device. The table below includes some requirements for life jackets on human-powered vesselssuch as kayaks, stand-up paddleboard or other similar craft however for specific details, please check with your state for more details.
For children, the US Coast Guard requires that when a vessel is underway, children under 13 years of age must wear their life jacket. Exceptions are for when the children are below deck or within an enclosed cabin. To learn how to choose the correct children’s life jacket that fits properly,click this link.
Information on this table includes a link back to its source for each state and boaters should check withthe states where they intend to boat before heading out on the water to ensure that there have been no changes. The information in this chart will be reviewed annually by Sea Tow Foundation and updated as needed. The last review wascompleted in April 2020.
We appreciate your comments and you can comment anytime at the end of this blog post.
Federal Law requires that when a vessel is underway, children under 13 years of age must wear their life jacket. Exceptions for when below deck or within an enclosed cabin. State laws may vary.
Large fines and/or jail time plus suspension of operator's certification.
All persons under eight (8) years of age, on any vessel, must, at all times, wear a U. S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device that must be strapped, snapped, or zipped securely in place; except, that no personal flotation device should be required when inside an enclosed cabin or enclosed sleeping space.
Th estate of Arizona's operating under the influence (OUI) law mirrors the states vehicular driving under the influence DUI laws and penalties.
All Vessels, including paddleboards and kayaks, must have at least one USCG-approved wearable life jacket for each person on board. The only exceptions are sailboards and certain racing shells. All children 12 years of aga and younger must wear a USCG-approved wearable life jacket while underway on the any vessel. the life jacket must be fastened according to the manufacturer’s recommended use and must fit the child properly.
Upon a first conviction, a person will lose his or her driver's license for a period of 6 months. In addition, jail and fine may be included.
Children under 12 years old and younger must wear a USCG-approved PFD securely fastened to their person at all times while on any vessel. Except if the child is within the enclosed area of a houseboat or cruiser, or within the area enclosed by railing on a party barge, cruiser, or houseboat, and the vessel is not underway.
Operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is a misdemeanor and could carry a penalty of one year in the county jail, or a fine, or both.
No person may operate or give permission to operate a vessel sixteen feet or more in length unless at least one wearable personal flotation device is on board for each person, plus at least one throwable personal flotation device, which is immediately available. Under state law, it is an infraction, punishable by a fine of up to $250, to operate a vessel of any length unless every child under 13 years of age on board is wearing a Type I, II, III or V Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
It is a misdemeanor for any person to operate or be in actual physical control of a vessel in this state while Under the influence of alcohol; any controlled substance; any combination of alcohol and
any controlled substance.
requires all operators and passengers to wear U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets and requires operators to use a lanyard switch. children 12 years of age and younger are required to wear a PFD whenever their vessel is on the water, except when they are in an enclosed cabin or below deck.
The penalty for a first violation may be: a fine; suspension of boating privileges, jail, probation, and or hours community service
Be worn by children under 13 years old on any vessel that is underway unless the child is below deck or in an enclosed cabin. Be worn by anyone in a manually propelled vessel from October 1 through May 31.
Every operator of a recreational boat shall be responsible for providing for the protection of any child 12 years of age or under by having any such child who is aboard a recreational boat upon the waters of this State, properly wear a Type I, II, III or V Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device which is in good serviceable condition and of the proper size. This section shall not apply to any child who is below deck or in an enclosed cabin or while said recreational boat is anchored or moored.
A person is guilty of the offense of boating under the influence is subject to fines, imprisonment, or both.
A person may not operate a vessel less than 26 feet in length on the waters of this state unless every person under 6 years of age on board the vessel is wearing a personal flotation device currently approved by the United States Coast Guard and used in accordance with the United States Coast Guard approval label while such vessel is underway. For the purpose of this section, “underway” means at all times except when a vessel is anchored, moored, made fast to the shore, or aground.
Those arrested for boating under the influence may lose their privilege to operate a boat or PWC until they successfully complete a DUI Alcohol or Drug Use Risk Reduction Program; and will also be charged with a misdemeanor punishable by fines and/or prison time.
All vessels must have a least one US Coast Guard USCG-approved Type I, II, III, or V person flotation device (PFD), sometimes called life jacket, for each person on board. Type V PFDs are acceptable only when worn and securely fastened. Children under 13 years old are required to wear a USCG-approved PFD while on board any moving vessel. Except if the child is in a fully enclosed cabin.
BUI is a misdemeanor and can include time in jail and/or a fine; and to attend and successfully complete a course on safe boating.
Children 14 and under must wear an approved life jacket when they are aboard a boat 19 feet in length or less whenever the boat is underway or under power. This applies to manually propelled boats such as canoes and rafts in addition to powerboats, sailboats, personal watercraft (jet skis) and fishing float tubes.
operating under the influence (OUI) is a Class “A” misdemeanor and can included jail and fines.
All vessels must have at least one U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)–approved wearable personal flotation device (PFD), sometimes called life jacket, for each person on board or being towed. All vessels 16 feet or longer, except canoes and kayaks, also must carry one USCG–approved throwable PFD. All children under the age of 13 must wear a PFD on vessels less than 26 feet in length when underway, unless they are below decks in an enclosed cabin or on a vessel operating on private property.
Boating under the influence violations will be subject to fines,
Imprisonment, and a loss of operating privileges.
A person shall not operate a vessel in Iowa unless every person on board the vessel who is age 12 and under is wearing a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket. A life jacket must be worn when the vessel is underway, which means when a vessel is not at anchor, tied to a dock or the bank/shore or aground.
A child age 12 and under in an enclosed cabin, below deck, or aboard a commercial vessel with a capacity of 25 persons or more is exempt.
Children 10 years of age and younger are required to wear a USCG-approved PFD at all times while on board a watercraft unless the watercraft is docked, anchored, or moored.
Violators subject to misdemeanor, fine, imprisonment, or both.
All children under the age of 13 must WEAR a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket (Type I, II, III or V) while underway on a recreational vessel under 21 feet in length on Maryland waters.
Penalties include the loss of a motor vehicle driver's license.
Life preservers are required to be worn by: (1) youth less than 12 years of age (2) personal watercraft users (3) waterskiers (4) canoeists/kayakers from September 15 - May 15.
A person commits the offense of boating while intoxicated if he or she operates a vessel while in an intoxicated condition. The offense of boating while intoxicated is a class B misdemeanor.
Each person under the age of seven who is on board any watercraft shall wear a personal flotation device which is approved by the United States Coast Guard. This law does not apply when the person under the age of seven is in a part of a watercraft which is fully enclosed, where such enclosure will prevent such person from falling out of or being thrown from the watercraft.
Subject to a fine, or jail, the loss of boating privileges, and to attend an alcoholism treatment program.
No child under 13 is allowed aboard any vessel when not wearing a Coast Guard-approved life preserver except when hunting waterfowl in an anchored boat. Operators shall be held responsible.
Subject to class B misdemeanor, fines, boating privilege suspension, driver’s license suspension, anignition interlock device (IID), and or Impaired Driver Care Management Program.
All children age 12 or under must wear an approved vest or jacket.
Subject to fine, loss of the privilege to operate a vessel, forfeiture of your driver’s license.
Any child 12 years of age or younger must WEAR a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD whenever the vessel is underway. If the child is inside a fully enclosed cabin that is a permanent, non-removable part of the vessel that is designed to carry passengers, then the child is not required to wear the PFD.
A child age twelve or under who is aboard the vessel to wear a personal flotation device approved by the United States Coast Guard while the vessel is underway, unless the child is below deck or in an enclosed cabin."
Subject to fines, imprisonment, suspension of operator privileges.
Children under the age of 12 aboard pleasure vessels les than 65 feet in length, canoes, kayaks, or rowboats, unless in a totally enclosed cabin. Pleasure vessels less than 21 feet in length from November 1 to May 1.
Subject to class 2 misdemeanors, a fine and or jail.
No person may use a recreational vessel unless each child under 13 years old on board is wearing an appropriate PFD approved by the Coast Guard unless: Each child not wearing such a PFD is below decks or in an enclosed cabin. The vessel is not underway. (Vessels that are anchored or tied to shore are not underway.) This new law does not apply to commercial vessels.
Subject to operator privileges may be revoked in addition to other penalties.
All persons 10 years of age or younger present on the vessel, wear an appropriately sized and properly fastened U.S. Coast Guard approved type I, II or III wearable personal flotation device while the vessel is in operation.
Fines, fees, possible jail time, loss of operating privileges, and attendance at a boating safety course.
A child under 13 years of age in a recreational vessel less than 65 feet (19.8 meters) in length on the waters of this state shall require that the child wear a wearable PFD approved by the U.S. Coast Guard while underway, unless below deck in a closed cabin.
Children 12 years of age and younger must wear a USCG-approved PFD at all times while on the open deck of a recreational vessel that is not anchored, moored, or aground.
(BUI) is the same as driving under the influence (DUI) and has the same penalties including suspension of driver license, possible jail time and fines.
Passengers, 12-years-old and younger must wear a properly sized coast guard approved life jacket whenever a boat is in operation.
Subject to fines, jail time, or both; loss of operating privileges; and completion of an alcohol program.
All boaters under the age of 12 must wear an approved U.S. Coast Guard Type I, II or III life jacket while underway on an open deck of any vessel. A person under 16 years of age a board a sailboard must be wearing a Type I, II, or III U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device.
Required when a vessel is underway, children under 13 years of age must wear their life jacket. Exceptions for when below deck or within an enclosed cabin. State laws may vary.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Thursday, April 16, 2020
Updated: Thursday, April 16, 2020
Exercise at Home with a Life Jacket to Get Ready for Boating Season
As many states are under stay-at-home orders at this time, exercise is taking on many forms. Some people are taking walks around their neighborhoods or running up and down the stairs in their apartment buildings. Other people are taking advantage of treadmills and stationary bikes that they already owned while others are turning to exercise videos for inspiration. With that in mind, the Sea Tow Foundation has created a unique full-body workout that utilizes a life jacket to help you get ready for boating season.
The life jacket exercise workout video features the Sea Tow Foundation’s Executive Director, Gail Kulp, in her living room. No special equipment is needed other than a pair of athletic shoes and a life jacket. The Sea Tow Foundation has partnered with Onyx life jackets for the nationwide Life Jacket Loaner Program which features over 650 life jacket loaner stations at marinas, fuel docks and boat ramps. Kulp explains that the life jacket exercise workout involves six different moves – two that are focused on strength, two that are focused on cardio and the final two that are focused on the abdominal muscles (also known as the abs).Each move is completed for one minute and then at the end of the six moves, there is a one-minute rest before completing the circuit three more times. When including a warm-up and cool-down of a couple of minutes, the entire life jacket exercise routine will take exactly 30 minutes to complete.
A variety of free timers are available to be downloaded to a phone or tablet and can be programmed for the 1-minute intervals for the life jacket exercise workout. Music of your choice can also be played while working out. The full exercise routine is listed at the bottom and Kulp demonstrates all of the moves in the video. She also includes some default moves if jumping or running in place is too difficult for the cardio portion of the life jacket exercise workout.
The life jacket workout exercise video is just one of many tools being debuted by the Sea Tow Foundation to help groups and individuals participate in National Safe Boating Week which takes place from May 16-22, 2020. The Sea Tow Foundation has developed a media kit, images sized for social media and we have recorded a webinar explaining how to use these tools and many others in your local area.
We’d love to hear from you after trying this life jacket exercise workout with your comments below. Was the workout easy or hard? And, we hope that you’ll connect with us on Facebook and Instagram before National Safe Boating Week to join in all the fun!
Circuit (1 minute each – repeat for total of 4 times)
1.Squat while taking life jacket on and off
2.Lunge life jacket pass
3.Jumping Jacks while wearing life jacket
4.High Knees while wearing life jacket
5.Abdominal Twists passing the life jacket
6.Dynamic Plank while wearing life jacket
7.Rest
Cool-Down (2 minutes)
Stretch as needed
Disclaimer: Before starting this or any exercise routine, the Sea Tow Foundation strongly recommends that you consult with your medical team. The Sea Tow Foundation staff are not experts in exercise techniques nor medical conditions. By voluntarily participating in this exercise routine, you understand that there is a possibility of injury and you assume all risk of injury to yourself and agree to release and hold harmless the Sea Tow Foundation from any and all claims or course of action.
Sea Tow Foundation Launches Our Newly Redesigned Website
We are excited to launch our newly redesigned website that is packed with information for recreational boaters to help keep family and friends safe on the water. The refreshed website also has resources for the marine industry to utilize in their promotions to reach out to their customers.
One of the amazing features of our new site, which is still found at boatingsafety.com, is that it is now completely functional and responsive on mobile and desktop versions allowing information to be easily found and shared related to our Life Jacket Loaner Program and our Sober Skipper program as well as plenty of other boating safety resources including our online shop, which now boasts plenty of printed materials and program supplies available for free or can be downloaded and printed at no charge at your home or office.
A favorite feature on our “Get Involved” page allows our supporters to interact with each other in ways we’ve never explored before which will provide an even greater value to the boating community nationwide, at no charge to them. Registration is free and you’ll not only receive access to our new newsletter, but also be able to join groups of dedicated people who are already working together to eliminate boating under the influence and reduce drowning incidents.
Our blog has been completely redesigned and is now easier to search for articles about boating safety classes, seasonal boating safety tips, being prepared for a day on the water, and so much more.
We hope you like the changes, and if you have any feedback, please let us know on Facebook and Instagram or click on the Contact Us link on our website.
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