See also:
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Life Preservers
Any time you do activities on the water,
it is important to have a life preserver
(jacket, vest, or other floatation device)
available even if you are an excellent swimmer.
Which one is best for you will depend on
the type of water activities you will be
doing, but some features you should consider
are:
- Coast Guard approval - the U.S. Coast Guard
has approved different types of preservers
for different types of water activities.
The label should show the preserver has Coast
Guard approval and what activities it is
appropriate for.
- Snug fit - your life preserver should match
your body size and shape. Preservers are
available for children, youths, adult men,
and adult women. Men’s preservers tend to
have a roomier fit than women’s, which are
designed to fit their shape more snugly.
Children’s preservers are made for smaller
bodies and often have a crotch strap so the
preserver doesn’t come off in the water.
- Highly visibility - there is a wide variety
of colors and materials to choose from if
you want more something more fashionable
than the traditional yellow or orange. Choosing
bright colors that are easily seen in the
water allows rescuers to quickly spot you
or other boaters to see you in time to avoid
going too close.
- Ease of motion - some skiers, swimmers, and
those in canoes and kayaks find a full upper-body
life preserver doesn’t let them move freely
in the water and prefer a life saving belt.
While providing comfort and mobility, these
don’t provide all the protection a life preserver
does, so look for preservers specifically
designed for the sport(s) you want to do.
If your activity includes bringing along
your pet, consider a life preserver for him.
Pet life preservers are available that offer the same kind of
protection in the water for him as it does
for you. |
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