05/26/2026
🛑 Life Jacket Safety Check: Keeping Our Youngest Boaters Safe
During recent vessel checks on Lake Dalrymple, our team encountered three separate boats with children under 14 who did not have proper, usable life jackets.
In every single case, the operators were charged. More importantly, kids were left vulnerable on the water. Here is what we found—and what you need to know before you launch:
Case 1: The "Grow Into It" Myth
The Issue: A 9-year-old was wearing an Adult L/XL jacket.
The Danger: If a child falls in, an oversized jacket will slip right over their head. Life jackets must fit securely now, not later.
Case 2: The "Squeezing In" Risk
The Issue: A 14-year-old (over 100 lbs) was wearing a youth jacket that was far too small.
The Danger: A jacket that is too small won’t provide enough buoyancy to keep an older youth afloat. They required a Small/Medium adult size.
Case 3: The Vintage Cushion Hazard
The Issue: A boat had life jackets from the 90s that were torn, degraded, and being used as seat cushions.
The Danger: Sun, water, and sitting on life jackets ruins their buoyancy. If it’s torn or waterlogged, it’s no longer a life-saving device.
đź“‹ Your Pre-Launch Checklist:
Check the Label: Ensure the life jacket matches the wearer’s weight and size.
Do the T-Shirt Fit: Fasten the jacket. Pull up on the shoulders. If it moves up past the wearer's ears or nose, it’s too big.
Inspect the Condition: Check for rips, tears, functional buckles/zippers, and rot. If it's damaged, replace it.
⚠️ Remember: Having life jackets on board isn't enough if they don't fit or don't work. Let's make sure everyone returns to the dock safely.
^JD
