4 Things to Look For When Selecting a Life Vest
Even if you’re a strong swimmer, not wearing a life vest can mean the difference between life and death. Events can happen quickly and unexpectedly, and boaters might not have time to grab their life jacket before finding themselves in the water. While a life jacket may not be the trendiest fashion statement, it’s a fashion accessory that you shouldn’t forgo. Whether you’re buying or renting a boat from Collins Marine, having the right life saving equipment is vital. There are many different styles that are designed for all kinds of water related activities. Here’s how to pick the right life jacket for both the adults and the kids on board.
Life jackets are made according to a person’s size and weight. There are also men’s and women’s life jackets and specialized life jackets for various sports like kayaking and wakeboarding. Because life jackets must fit a certain way to be effective, purchasing a life jacket online is NOT recommended unless you’re already very familiar with the life jacket brand and how it fits.
Don’t know how to get started? Here’s what to look for when choosing a life jacket:
1. USCG Stamp of Approval
The life jacket must be United States Coast Guard (USCG) approved. Look for the USCG stamp on the inside of the life jacket. It’s usually near the sizing and other valuable information.
2. Life Vest Size
Make sure the life jacket is the correct size. The life jacket will ride up around your face if it’s too big. If it’s too small, it will not be able to keep your body afloat. Make sure it has a snug fit but allows you to move freely. Make sure there is no excess room above the arm openings.
A common misconception about children’s life jackets is that if it doesn't have a snug fit a child can slip out of it, or the jacket can ride up, making it difficult for them to keep their head above water.
Although this is not necessarily true, it is still important to check for a proper fit for a child’s life vest. First, cinch up the adjustment straps, starting from the bottom. Then, lift on the shoulder straps. If the jacket stays in place, it’s a good fit. However, if the jacket rides up and the front comes up to the chin or higher, it’s a dangerous fit. If it still rides up after you’ve tightened the straps all the way, you’ve got the wrong jacket or size.
Adult life jackets come in sizes ranging from Extra-Small to Extra-Large so it’s important to measure yourself accurately before purchasing one. It should fit snugly around your body without being too tight or loose. When searching for a life jacket, try looking for one with adjustable straps and buckles that can provide a better fit while you are in the water.
3. Life Vest Condition
A life vest must be properly maintained in order to provide the intended level of protection. It is essential that all components are in good working condition, including the straps, buckles, zippers, buoyancy materials and reflective tape. The straps and buckles should be fastened securely and not frayed or worn down, and the zippers should be operable without any difficulty.
The buoyancy materials must have intact seams and be free from any rips or tears and the reflective tape used for nighttime visibility needs to remain bright and visible. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the vest fits snugly against your body so that it is secure throughout any activities.
4. Life Vest Style
There are multiple different styles and types of life jacket designed for various water activities. It is important to know what type will be best for your day out on the water.
Type I Life Vest
Type I is best used when cruising, racing and fishing offshore , or when boating alone, or in stormy conditions. They are best for open, rough or remote water where rescue may be slow to arrive. They will turn MOST unconscious wearers face-up in water. Type I Offers the best protection, but is somewhat bulky and uncomfortable.
Type II Life Vest
Type II is best used for inland day cruising, fishing and sailing. They are good for boating in the light, protected, inland water near shore, but not suitable for extended survival in rough water. In rough water, it often requires you to tread water in order to keep your head above water. Type II is more comfortable but less buoyant than Type I.
Don't Forget to Wear It!
A great fitting USCG-approved life jacket in excellent condition only works if you wear it! Each person on a boat must have a life jacket on board and wear it any time the boat is moving.
Are you looking for a great way to have some family fun this summer? Collins Marine has an extensive new and used boat inventory so you are sure to find what you’re looking for. Grab your life jackets and get ready for a summer out on the water with your brand new Collins Marine boat.