Approved Devices
To meet the legal requirements of a life jacket, life vests must be approved by the United States Coast Guard. Furthermore, they must be wearable. All life jackets are labeled with a "Type" designation that will indicate its approval by the USCG. Approved types are labeled I, II, III or V.
Number Requirement
All vessels are required by law to have one approved life jacket for every person aboard the boat. The life jackets aboard must be in good condition and suitable to the people using the craft. That means that six adult life jackets are not legally adequate to serve a boat with five adults and a child aboard.
Throwing Devices
A U.S. Coast Guard approved throwing device is required on all vessels over 16 feet in length. You can tell that a throwing device is USCG approved if it has a "Type IV" designation.
Personal Watercraft
Anyone operating a personal watercraft, such as a jet-ski, are required to wear a USCG approved life jacket at all times. The life jacket must be of type I, II or III.
Article Written By Louie Doverspike
Based in Seattle, Louie Doverspike has been a professional writer since 2004. His work has appeared in various publications, including "AntiqueWeek" magazine, the "Prague Post" and "Seattle Represent!" Doverspike holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Hamilton College.
