Most people don’t smile when they pull a lifejacket over their head, but it’s necessary—especially for children. And, if your family enjoys boating, sailing, and canoeing on lakes, rivers and streams, be sure that not only do your children wear a life jacket but also don the correct one.
Many children and adolescents think life jackets and life preservers are hot, bulky, and ugly. This is no longer necessarily true. Newer models look better, feel better, and provide increased protection. And, don’t forget this rule: life jackets and life preservers should never be substitutes for adult supervision.
LIFE JACKETS
TYPE 1: This jacket floats the best. It is designed to turn most people who are unconscious in the water from the face-down position to an upright and slightly backward position. This jacket helps the person to stay in that position for a long time. It is to be used in open water and oceans. It is available in only two sizes: one size for adults more than 90 pounds and one size for children less than 90 pounds.
TYPE 2: This jacket can turn a person upright and slightly backwards but not as much as the Type 1 jacket. It may not always help an unconscious person to float face up. It is comfortable and comes in many sizes for children.
TYPE 3: This jacket is designed for conscious users in calm, inland water. It is very comfortable and comes in many styles. This life jacket is often used for water sports and should be used only when it is expected that the rescue can be done quickly.
LIFE PRESERVERS
TYPE 4: A life preserver is a cushion or ring and is not worn. It is designed to be used in two ways. It can be grasped and held until the person is rescued, or it can be thrown to someone in the water until he or she is rescued. It is not a toy and should only be used in a rescue situation. Check the label on the life preserver to be sure it meets U.S. Coast Guard or state regulations. Use only life jackets and life preservers that are tested by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. If they are, they will have a label that says so. Life jackets are labeled by type (1, 2, 3, or 4) and for whom they are designed (child or adult).
