Where would you think most drownings occur? Most likely at sea, right? That's actually not the case! Nine out of ten drownings occur in inland waters and most involve boats that are less than 20-feet long. Almost 85% of victims of drowning are not wearing a life jacket! In just 60 seconds an adult can drown and a child can drown in just 20 seconds. Most victims chose not to wear a life jacket that was available to them. It's not only important to wear a life jacket, it's important to wear the right life jacket for you.
In Pennsylvania, children 13 years and younger are required by Federal Regulations to wear a life jacket when not in an enclosed cabin or below deck. There must be a wearable life jacket for each person on board your vessel. There are many different types of life jackets depending on your boating activities.
To ensure you have the right life jacket for you, try it on and make sure it fits snugly. It should keep your chin above water and should not ride up on the body. Care for your life jacket correctly to keep it in good condition.
A life jacket will only work if you wear it! For more information on care, maintenance, and finding the right life jacket for you, here is a great guide!
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