|
Before boating, make sure all family members have
personal flotation devices that fit.
Anytime anyone goes boating, there is a chance of
falling overboard. In fact, more than 90 percent of deaths in boating
result from drowning and, significantly, 80 percent of those drowning
victims were not wearing a personal flotation device.
Thus, the Personal Flotation Device Manufacturers
Association, an affiliate of the National Marine Manufacturers
Association, is stressing the importance of lifejackets and
emphasizing, "It wonÕt work if you don't use it."
With the the boating season upon us, now is the time
for boaters to make sure every family member has a properly fitting
flotation device to wear onboard. Children especially should always
wear a personal flotation device whenever on water. Although efforts
to establish a federal lifejacket requirement for kids have been
sidetracked in Congress, flotation device usage by children is the law
in 26 states; 16 states require it for kids aged 5-11, while 10 states
mandate it for those 12 and under.
Lifejackets are sized according to weight and chest
sizes. A snug fit is essential for all and a strap between the legs is
a good feature for younger children to prevent the vest from coming
off in an emergency situation. Lifejackets come in a variety of
colorful designs to appeal to kids and teenagers.
Knowing lifejacket facts is just one part of the
overall boating safety picture. The PFDMA offers these additional tips
for boaters:
* Take a boating safety course (to find one, consult
the yellow pages for a Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadron
listing).
* Know your own capabilities as a boater and a
swimmer.
* Know how to handle the craft you'll be operating.
* Know the environment you'll be out in.
* Educate passengers about safety procedures and what
to do if an emergency arises.
|
