So You Can Swim......
- For how long?
- How far?
- While trying to put a lifejacket on?
- While helping your kids?
- In rough water?
- When you are injured?
- While you are unconscious?
Always Wear Your Lifejacket
Maritime authorities estimate that lifejackets could have saved the lives of over 80% of boating fatality victims. As a boat operator you are in command of the safety of your passengers. But accidents can, and do happen with terrifying speed on the water. There's rarely time to reach stowed lifejackets. The Australian Volunteer Coast Guard challenges you and your passengers to always wear your lifejacket while on the water.
Things to Know
Certain lifejackets are designed to keep your head above water and help you remain in a position which permits proper breathing. Approved lifejackets must be carried on board every vessel unless exempt. Penalties will be imposed on the owners and masters of vessels found not carrying them or occupants not wearing them as required. Adult sized lifejackets will not work for children. Children's lifejackets are available. To work correctly a lifejacket must be worn, fit snugly, and not allow a child's chin or ears to slip through. Lifejackets should be tested for wear and buoyancy at least once per year. Waterlogged, faded or leaky jackets should be discarded.
Lifejackets Save Lives
Lifejackets have saved the lives of boaters who....
- Capsized in rough water
- Were sinking in unexpectedly heavy sea conditions.
- Were thrown from the boat as a result of a collision.
- Were injured by rocks or submerged objects.
- Were unconscious from inhaling carbon monoxide fumes.
- Were tossed into freezing water.
- Were thrown off balance while fishing
- Were unable to swim because of heavy or waterlogged clothing
To stay In the Clear always wear a lifejacket on the water!! Safety by all means.
Thanks to Bob Mellor, National Training Manager for AVCGA for this editorial.
Editor's comment: It is very easy to become complacent when you have had so many good times aboard and seemingly no need to wear your lifejacket. As Bob states above, boating accidents often happen at high speed and or at night. Boats sink so fast there is no time to clamber around in your cabin or underneath bunks to retrieve lifejackets. PLEASE get in the habit of wearing your PFD or at the very least, have it sitting right beside you EVERY time you venture out to sea or on the bay. If you are by yourself, always wear your PFD Type 1 lifejacket - you may be rendered unconscious with no one to buoy you.
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