• Life vests can save children from drowning.boys in life jackets image by sonya etchison from Fotolia.com
  
  The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources requires that all boats carry a wearable, Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device for each occupant. Boats that are 16 feet long, or larger, must also carry an approved throwable PFD. The DNR strongly recommends that children wear life vests whenever they're out on the water, but Wisconsin law didn't require it as of June 2010. The state legislature was considering changes in the law.
  
  

Types

• The Coast Guard classifies PFDs into five types. Type I PFDs, offshore life vests, provide the most buoyancy in open or remote waters where rescue may be slow. They're designed to turn an unconscious wearer face up in the water. Type II and Type III PFDs are more popular because they're less bulky, but offer less protection. Type V PFDs are designed for mobility and are typically used for water sports. A Type V vest doesn't satisfy Wisconsin's requirements unless it's actually being worn while the boat is underway. Type IV devices are throwables. For children, Type I and Type II life vests are best.
  
  

Sizing

• Wisconsin requires a properly sized life vest that's in good condition for each person on a boat. Sizes for children's life vests are specified according to weight. The ranges are under 30 pounds, 30 to 50 pounds, 50 to 90 pounds and over 90 pounds. Don't purchase a larger vest for a child to grow into. If the vest is too big it may slip off. If it is too small it may not provide enough buoyancy. To measure the life vest, have your child try it on. With the vest fastened, lift up the vest by the shoulders. If it has more than three inches of give, the vest is too big. The buoyancy of vests will decrease over time, so test them at the beginning of each boating season and at least twice during the season. Be sure to check all buckles and straps.
  
  

Accessibility

• Life vests must be accessible under Wisconsin law. The DNR doesn't allow storage of life vests in plastic bags, in locked or closed compartments or under other equipment on the boat. Wear a PFD or keep them where they can be grabbed immediately if needed.