Life jacket

Most people who drown in boating accidents were not wearing a life jacket. When the boat capsizes or someone falls in, there is no time to look for it under the seat.

• Use a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket (the label says "U.S. Coast Guard Approved"), in the size and weight range shown on the label.
• Fit test: fasten it and lift it by the shoulders. If it rides up past your chin or ears, it is loose or the wrong size.
• Children: a life jacket in their size, with a flotation collar and a crotch strap on the smallest ones. Never use inflatable arm floaties or toys as a substitute.
• Check your state's rules: in many states, on a motorboat under 26 feet (7.9 m) that is underway, every passenger under 13 must wear a life jacket.
• Add a whistle to the life jacket.
• Check before each season: no tears, buckles that close, no mildew. Inflatable ones need their cartridge checked.
• Pets: dog life jackets exist with a handle on the back for pulling them out of the water.