Life Jackets: Two Guidelines on Choosing the Right Life Jackets
A family of five found out how important life jackets are when their new boat capsized in Jervis Bay yesterday. The mother and father and their three young children were all wearing life jackets when their 4.5 meter runabout tipped over in rough conditions in Callala Bay, in northern Jervis Bay, about 12:10 p.m.
News items like these are the inspiration for this article, which gives you tips on choosing lifejackets that are right for your family.
Tips on Getting the Right Jackets to Avert Disaster
1. Ensure you know the US Coast Guard life jacket ratings.
According to Coast Guard ratings, the Type I offshore lifejacket is best used for open, rough or remote waters where rescue may take some time. Type II near shore buoyancy life vest and Type III flotation aids are intended for calm waters or where there is a good chance of a relatively quick rescue. Type IV is a device that is thrown out to someone who has fallen overboard, such as a life ring or life preserver. Type V special use device is designed and approved for specific activities as listed on its label.
2. Do you know what your life jackets will be primarily used for?
Think about what kind of water play your jackets will be used for when you buy, and then get one that will provide a snug fit and offer the greatest freedom of movement. It’s important that you don’t feel overwhelmed when trying to choose the right life jacket: the best jacket is the one you’ll wear. These devices can save your life – but only if you wear them!
Make sure there is a label when you purchase, stating that your life jacket was tested by Underwriters Laboratory and approved by the US Coast Guard. Lifejackets are labeled by type and size. Never put an adult lifejacket on a child.