Why a Life Jacket for Baby When Boating is a Must
If you are one of those families who love to go on the water in a boat occasionally, then you should be aware of life jacket rules. One says everyone under the age of 13 who gets into a boat should have a life jacket on. This means that when you bring your baby with you on a boat ride anywhere in the contingent U.S., they should be wearing an appropriate PFD (personal flotation device). This also means that you should have a life jacket for the baby when you get on a boat.
What Defines an Appropriate Personal Flotation Device?
When you say “appropriate” personal flotation device, this means that these should be one that can effectively keep a person afloat in case they fall into the water. This should also help keep their head above water. The only appropriate flotation device that your baby should wear is a life jacket.
If you were to check PFD’s definition or personal flotation device, you would find that this actually covers several devices. These include life vests, life jackets, and life preservers. For those who aim to follow the law mandates when they get into a boat, the right PFD to use for your kids is a life jacket.
Why You Should Ensure Everyone is Wearing a Life Jacket
Going on a boat ride can be fun, even for toddlers and babies. The splash of the water, the misty breeze, and the company of people aboard are all recipes for great enjoyment. However, this boat rides can also be unpredictable, hence the need for a life jacket for every person on board.
While the coast guard has ruled that infants under 18 pounds shouldn’t go on a boat, older and bigger ones are allowed. If you are bringing your baby on a boat ride anywhere, make sure you have a life jacket for baby. Why? Here are some reasons:
To keep them afloat in case of accidents – Going on a boat isn’t as safe as you may want it to be, no matter how calm the waters are or how reliable your boat is. Accidents can happen. This is the main reason why babies and kids need to wear a life jacket whenever they are on board a boat. In case of sudden storms or collisions that cause a boat to sink, having a life jacket on will help ensure that your baby will stay afloat on the water.
To keep them from drowning – Of course, if they keep afloat, they will be safe from drowning. This is the primary role of the life jacket and is why your baby should wear it, not only when you go boating, but when they are near water. If you are at a pool, have your baby wear a life jacket. If they’re playing on the beach near the water, a life jacket should also be worn. Having a life jacket for baby ready for any occasion that takes you near the water should be a must. This is so you can rest assured that your little one is safe at all times.
