| Federal Regulations/Safety Tips |
PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices) Federal regulations require all recreational boats to carry one wearable PFD (Type I, II, III or V) for each person on board. A boat that is 16 ft. or longer (except canoes and kayaks) must also carry one throwable PFD (Type IV). PFDs must be US Coast Guard Approved. They must be in good condition and the correct size for the user. Accessibility: Wearable PFDs must be readily accessible. They should not be stowed in plastic bags or locked in compartments. In the case of emergency, boaters must be able to reach and put on his/her PFD in a timely manner. Though not required, PFDs should be worn while onboard the boat. A PFD can safe a life only when it is worn. Throwable flotation devices must also be available for immediate use. Inflatable PFDs: US Coast Guard approved inflatable PFDs are authorized for use on recreational boats by persons 16yrs or older. They may be more comfortable to wear and require careful attention to the condition of the PFD to be sure it is in working order. To meet requirements, the Inflatable PFD must have a full cylinder and all status indicators must be on green. Child Requirements: Some states require children to wear PFDs - based on age of child, size of boat, specific boating operations. Check with your state for specific requirements. Child PFD approvals are based on weight. Check the "user weight" on the label to be sure it is appropriate for your child. State Laws-Certain Boating Activities: The US Coast Guard recommends that states require PFDs for: water skiing or towed activities, while operating a personal watercraft, during white water boating, while sailboarding. Again, check with your state for specific boating regulations. |