Wearing a Life Jacket Matters

Whether you're an experienced water enthusiast or new to adventures in and on the water, understanding the critical role of life jackets is essential for everyone's safety, especially for little ones. 

In emergency situations, there often isn’t time to grab a life jacket and put it on properly. Wearing a life jacket is a simple safety precaution that can prevent tragedy from happening in the event of an accident. It can it save your life and can help you assist others who may be in danger.
 

Why Wear a Life Jacket?

• It’s the Law: 
  • North Carolina requires anyone under 13 to wear an appropriate life jacket when on a recreational vessel. 
  • Anyone riding a personal watercraft or being towed by one must also wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. 
  • Both state and federal regulations require that a Type I, II or III personal flotation device in good condition and of appropriate size be accessible for each person onboard a recreational vessel, including canoes, kayaks, rowboats and other non-motorized craft. (Sailboards, racing shells, rowing sculls, racing canoes and racing kayaks are exempt from this requirement.)
  • Both North Carolina and federal regulations require that a personal floatation device in serviceable condition and of appropriate size should be accessible for each person onboard a vessel.
• Safety First: A life jacket is your best defense against unexpected submersion. It keeps you afloat and reduces the risk of drowning, ensuring you can enjoy water activities with peace of mind.
• Be a Role Model: Wearing a life jacket as an adult demonstrates responsible behavior for children. It teaches them from a young age that safety is paramount when near or on water.

Model Safe Behavior

• Consistency: Always wear a life jacket yourself whenever near or on water, regardless of your swimming ability. Conditions can change quickly, before you have time to grab a life jacket stowed elsewhere on the boat!
• Visibility: Ensure children can see you wearing a life jacket so they understand its importance.
• Explanation: Explain to children why you wear a life jacket, emphasizing safety and the unpredictability of water.
• Encouragement: Encourage children to wear life jackets by showing them how easy and comfortable it is to wear one.
• Demonstration: Demonstrate how to properly fit and adjust a life jacket so children can emulate correct usage.
• Inclusion: Include life jackets as part of any water-related activities, making it a normal part of preparation.
• Responsibility: Take responsibility for ensuring children wear their life jackets correctly and consistently.
• Reinforcement: Reinforce the message that wearing a life jacket is non-negotiable for safety around water.

Modeling Safe Behavior Benefits Kids:

• Learn by Example: Children learn best by observing adults. When they see grown-ups consistently wearing life jackets, they understand the importance and are more likely to follow suit.
• Build Confidence: Knowing that adults prioritize safety can boost children's confidence in participating in water activities, knowing they are safe.
• Instill Lifelong Habits: Modeling safe behavior sets a precedent for lifelong habits. Children who grow up seeing and wearing life jackets are more likely to continue using them independently as they mature.

Life jackets have improved dramatically over the years. 

Newer models are not the bulky, hot floatation devices of yesteryear. In fact, many life jackets are designed for specific activities such as fishing, water sports and even hunting. These specialized life jackets grant the user the freedom to enjoy their day on the water in comfort.

Tips for Choosing and Wearing a Life Jacket:

• Type and Use: Select a Coast Guard approved life jacket appropriate for the activity and water conditions. Always wear it correctly, with all buckles and zippers fastened securely.
• Proper Fit: Ensure the life jacket matches with the wearer’s weight and fits snugly but comfortably. It should not ride up or be too loose.
• Regular Inspections: Check your life jacket for wear and tear before each use. Replace it if it shows signs of damage or aging.

Prioritize safety on the water. 

Even the strongest swimmers can drown. Wearing a life jacket isn't just a precaution; it's a commitment to protecting yourself and setting a positive example for future generations. Join us in promoting safe water practices and ensuring everyone's enjoyment of water-based adventures responsibly.