Life jacket tips for safe water activities

Jul 10, 2023

by: Kaelee Collins

Posted: Aug 1, 2023 / 05:32 PM EDT

Updated: Aug 1, 2023 / 05:32 PM EDT

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – It’s an ideal time to get outside and onto the water for activities, like boating and swimming.

Before hitting the water, it’s important to familiarize yourself with life jacket requirements, including type and size. You’ll want to make sure your vest is Coastguard approved, and choose the type based on what activity you’re doing.

There are five types of personal flotation devices;

22News stopped by Sam’s Outdoor Outfitter’s in Hadley, to learn about additional factors to consider when choosing a life-jacket. “It mainly goes by t-shirt size, so that’s kind of a good way to start,” said one worker. “There’s also chest-size measurements inside you can go by and you want to make sure that the weight limit is correct for you.”

State law requires that all canoeists and kayakers wear a life jacket while on the water from September 15 through May 15.

Children under the age of 12, personal water craft users & jet skiers must wear a life jacket too, so once you pick the right fit, make sure to actually wear it! It can save your life.

Kaelee Collins is a reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since 2022. Follow Kaelee on X @kaelee_collins and view her bio to see more of her work.

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