Water Safety 101: Fit Your Kid for a Life Jacket Before Hitting the Water This Summer
This article was produced in partnership with the Water Sports Foundation
Summer vacation plans often revolve around a body of water, whether a lake, pond, river, or ocean. That means you should take water safety seriously, especially when kids are involved.
If you plan on renting or visiting a house near a waterfront, remember that while watercraft—kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, motorboats—are often included in the cost of the vacation home, lifejackets, or personal flotation devices (PFDs), are not always part of the deal.
And if they are, they aren't necessarily going to be the right size for you and your child.
Pack a Jacket
Be sure to pack proper lifejackets for all of your little ones when going to vacation at a sunny spot by the water, just to be safe. Select PFDs made specifically for children, as adult-sized lifejackets most likely won't work for a child. U.S. Coast Guard-approved lifejackets will also have a label that states the user weight limits and chest size.
When worn correctly, it should fit snugly and not rise above the chin or ears when in the water. If your vacation spot does have lifejackets made for children, double-check the fit and the condition of the PFD. If it's worn, faded, not in good condition, or not approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, don't use it.
Test it Out
It's also worth testing out the lifejacket on your kids in the water before any water activities by simply putting it on them and going for a swim. Make sure the lifejacket is secure and comfortable. Most have multiple adjustment straps and points to make sure you can dial in the fit. Then, when in the water, check again to make sure that PFD is not hitting your child's chin or ears and isn't restricting their airway in any way.
Know the Laws
Many states also have requirements for lifejacket wear for children, so be sure to check out the regulations before getting out on the water. Federal law requires that, when a vessel is underway, children under 13 years of age must wear their lifejacket. In larger boats, exceptions are made for when the child is below deck or inside an enclosed cabin.
Have Fun!
Getting out on the water during a hot summer day is a great way to have vacation fun with your family, and making sure your kids learn about water safety early is essential. So remember that the best lifejacket is the one your kids will wear, so be sure to have a safe, comfortable and, most of all, life-saving PFD ready to go before you hit the water.
