Contact: Maj. Bayard Holleger, Fish & Wildlife Enforcement, phone: (302) 739-9913
or Joanna Wilson, Public Affairs, phone: (302) 739-9902

Give Boating Dads a Lifesaving Gift for Father’s Day: New Life Jackets

Father’s Day is almost here and you still haven’t decided on that gift? If your dad is a fisherman or boater, your problem may be solved. He may need a new life jacket.

According to the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, federal and state boating laws require all boats to carry one “wearable” life jacket for each person onboard. This includes anyone being pulled behind the boat such as tubers and water skiers. Boats 16 feet or more in length (except canoes and kayaks) must also carry one “throwable” floatation device such as a buoyant cushion or ring buoy.

Hundreds die each year in boating accidents, and most were not wearing a life jacket. A new Coast Guard-approved life jacket is one of the most thoughtful and practical gifts you could give a father who is a fishing or boating enthusiast.

The U. S. Coast Guard approves five types of life jackets:

• Type I: Called “offshore life jackets,” these have the greatest buoyancy and are designed to hold an unconscious person in a slightly backward vertical position with the face out of the water. Type I jackets are best for large bodies of water such as the Great Lakes and oceans, where rescue could be delayed and cold water could cause victims to lose consciousness.

• Type II: Smaller, more comfortable versions of the Type I, these have less buoyancy and may not turn a victim’s face out of the water.

• Type III: Called “buoyant vests,” these are the most popular because they are reasonably cool and comfortable to wear. Designed with pockets and or other features useful to boating and fishing activities, they have the same buoyancy as a Type II but will not turn a victim’s face out of the water.

• Type IV: Throwable devices come in the form of rings, cushions and horsecollars. They are designed to float a person for short time periods when held by the victim. They are a poor choice for non-swimmers or children.

• Type V: These are special devices such as work vests and race vests which are not accepted for use on recreational vessels, and hybrid devices which are approved for recreational use. The hybrid devices usually hold a double rating such as a vest rated as Type III when not inflated and Type I or Type II when inflated. Other Type V devices include the new inflatable personal floatation devices. Type V devices must be worn at the time of inspection to be accepted as meeting the Coast Guard’s equipment requirements.

Before buying Dad a life jacket, check the condition of life jackets and cushions he already has. The buoyant material in many life jackets is contained in airtight plastic bags. If the bags are damaged and water is allowed to soak the material, the life jackets will not float a victim. Squeeze the jacket and if air is heard escaping, the life jacket should be replaced. Also, discard any life jackets that have soaked up oil, grease or gasoline – all three destroy buoyancy. Check zippers, buckles and other fasteners to see they are functioning.

If your Dad says life jackets are hot or confining, check out the new inflatable life jackets available at marine dealers. Some resemble suspenders and others are like fanny packs. The cost of inflatable lifejackets range from $75 to $150, but are worth the investment.

And Dad, if the family doesn’t take the hint, go out and buy yourself a suitable life jacket, and wear it! Give your family a Father’s Day present – you!

 

-30-