Minors
Alabama's life jacket regulations state that everyone under the age of 16 must wear a life jacket when on a boat. This law went into effect August of 2009 and replaced an older law that required children ages 12 and younger to wear life jackets.
Boating Requirements
Everyone over the age of 16 must have a life jacket readily accessible and available to her when on a vessel of any kind. People aboard a tiller-operated outboard engine, or those boating within 800 feet below a dam, must wear life jackets at all times regardless of their age.
Watersports
Swimmers towed on water skis or inner tubes, riding on jet skis or Sea-Doos must wear a life jacket regardless of age.
Life Jacket Specifics
All boats must carry one of four types of U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets: Type I (offshore life jacket), Type II (near-shore vest), Type III (flotation aids) or Type V (activity-specific) for each person on board. Type V PFDs must be approved for the activity at hand. The classification type should be listed on the PFD label, along with the sizing information. All life jackets must be in good shape and be the right size for the person based on his weight and/or chest size. Boats 16 feet in length or longer must keep one Type IV life throwable device, such as a life preserver, floating cushion or ring buoy, on board to be thrown out to a person in the event of trouble.
Article Written By Virginia Franco
Based in Charlotte, N.C., Virginia Franco has more than 15 years experience freelance writing. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications, including the education magazine "My School Rocks" and Work.com. Franco has a master's degree in social work with an emphasis in health care from the University of Maryland and a journalism degree from the University of Richmond.
