Safety Gear
Life Jackets
The single most important piece of safety equipment to wear on or around the water at all times is a personal flotation device (PFD) - most commonly referred to as a life jacket. If you fall overboard, off the dock, or off a riverbank, your chances of survival are greatly improved when wearing a life jacket. It is important the life jacket you wear is sized properly, in good condition and correctly worn, and of a type appropriate for the activity. Children are always required to wear life jackets on recreational boats. Some laws vary state to state; review local regulations and Coast Guard requirements pertinent to the use of PFDs. Please be sure you and your family wear your life jackets at all times when on or near the water. Safety is your responsibility; always wear a life jacket.
Throwable rescue devices, such as life rings or flotation cushions, should be on hand to assist others. Single tragedies become multiple catastrophes as people try to assist others and end up in the same situation as the original victim. “Reach, Throw, Don’t Go,” is a good motto to follow in assisting others when faced with a potential drowning.
Other Recommended Equipment
- GPS (Global Positioning System)
- EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon)
