With the summer months approaching, many people are starting to think about their summer plans. If you plan on spending any time on or near water this season, it is important to always wear a life jacket. The consequences of not wearing one can be deadly.
In this article, we will give you some tips for buying life jackets & vests that fit your needs and wants to have an enjoyable experience in the water.
Consider the Type of Water You Will Be Boating On
The type of water you will be boating on is an extremely important consideration to make when buying a life jacket. Some bodies of water are warmer than others, and colder waters can increase the risk for hypothermia. If you’re going out in cold waters (below 70 degrees Fahrenheit), it’s best to look into purchasing a dry suit or other types of cold-water protection. It is essential to ensure your health and safety when boating, and choosing the right life jacket in relation to the type of water you will boat on will be ideal.
Check for a Coast Guard Approved Seal
You should also check to ensure that the United States Coast Guard officially approved the life jacket. To do this, you should look for a U.S. Coast Guard Approved marking on your product as well as for instructions and diagrams about how it should be used (usually along with its size). This seal means that it has been tested and proven effective in day-to-day use, so you can trust that it will be able to work when you need it most. If you are not in the USA, you should check with a similar organization in your country for an equivalent seal.
Ensure the Life Jacket Is Comfortable and Fits Properly
It is also important that the life jacket is comfortable to wear. You do not want anything that will restrict your movement or become a distraction when wearing it, so only choose something breathable and form-fitting.
Additionally, if possible, you should try on several different types of jackets before buying one to find out which design fits you the best. If you are purchasing one online, then it is a good idea to read reviews of others who have used your product so that you can get some insight into how well it fits and feels on others besides yourself.
Test out the straps
Testing the straps to make sure they are sturdy and stay in place is extremely important. If the straps do not fit securely, water will be able to get inside of your jacket, which defeats its purpose entirely. It’s also a good idea to check for tears or broken zippers as this can pose an immediate danger if you have to rely on them while out on the water. Ensure that you can secure your jacket with ease.
So, what’s the takeaway message? Well, there are a lot of things to consider when choosing your life jacket. But it all boils down to one thing – safety. Make sure you choose a life jacket that will last and is safe for your needs so that if an emergency arises, you have the best chance of staying afloat until help arrives.
