When Are Life Jackets Really Neccessary?
Whenever your children are around water, it is absolutely necessary they wear a life jacket. It only takes a second for an accident to happen. Most accidents happen with a parent or guardian close by. It is so easy to forget to pay attention for a second or two. A life jacket helps prevent that from turning into tragedy. Please always make sure all children are wearing a personal flotation device, and never leave a child unattended when near water.
There are many different activities that call for a personal flotation device. Usually adults or strong swimmers only wear them while engaging in a water activity, such as water skiing. If it is only going to be worn for such an occasion, then comfort isn't as important as strength. A child should always wear one when on or near water, so comfort would be important. The U.S. Coast Guard rates personal flotation devices, to aid in selecting the right type.
There are five different types of U.S. Coast Guard approved life preservers.
Type I - "Off Shore" Rough water, for a conscious or unconscious person
Type II- "Near Shore" Calm water, for a conscious or unconscious person
Type III - "Sport" or "Flotation Aide" Not capable of protecting an unconscious person
Type IV - "Throw Ring or Cushion" Thrown to someone who has fallen into the water
Type V - Designed for a specific activity
When you are choosing a life preserver make sure it is U.S. coast guard approved and is made for your child's weight. You also want to make certain the life preserver fits correctly. If it is too large it can slip off. You want it snug, but if it is too tight it will be uncomfortable and the child might try to remove it. Bright colors are best because they are easily seen. Life preservers usually are nylon or polyester. Although nylon may not be as soft, both offer equal buoyancy. Nylon is usually a little less expensive.
For children under 30 pounds the life preserver should have a neck and head rest, as well as a strap that slides under the crotch. This prevents the child from slipping out of the jacket. It should also have a hook in the back to assist if you need to pull the child from the water.
Once again, never leave a child unattended near water. Ensure your child has the proper life preserver so that you may enjoy water fun. Investing in a good life preserver is a small price to pay for your child's safety.
There are many different activities that call for a personal flotation device. Usually adults or strong swimmers only wear them while engaging in a water activity, such as water skiing. If it is only going to be worn for such an occasion, then comfort isn't as important as strength. A child should always wear one when on or near water, so comfort would be important. The U.S. Coast Guard rates personal flotation devices, to aid in selecting the right type.
There are five different types of U.S. Coast Guard approved life preservers.
Type I - "Off Shore" Rough water, for a conscious or unconscious person
Type II- "Near Shore" Calm water, for a conscious or unconscious person
Type III - "Sport" or "Flotation Aide" Not capable of protecting an unconscious person
Type IV - "Throw Ring or Cushion" Thrown to someone who has fallen into the water
Type V - Designed for a specific activity
When you are choosing a life preserver make sure it is U.S. coast guard approved and is made for your child's weight. You also want to make certain the life preserver fits correctly. If it is too large it can slip off. You want it snug, but if it is too tight it will be uncomfortable and the child might try to remove it. Bright colors are best because they are easily seen. Life preservers usually are nylon or polyester. Although nylon may not be as soft, both offer equal buoyancy. Nylon is usually a little less expensive.
For children under 30 pounds the life preserver should have a neck and head rest, as well as a strap that slides under the crotch. This prevents the child from slipping out of the jacket. It should also have a hook in the back to assist if you need to pull the child from the water.
Once again, never leave a child unattended near water. Ensure your child has the proper life preserver so that you may enjoy water fun. Investing in a good life preserver is a small price to pay for your child's safety.
