Recreational
Water
Sports
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Life Jackets for Recreational Water Sports
Today’s life jackets may not be what you think – many are lightweight, easy to move in, and come in many sizes, styles, and shapes for every person and every sport. There are even ones for pets! Click on a jacket to find out more about it and get tips on proper fit. Click here for life jackets that are best for angling and hunting.
Note: Boating out-of-state? There may be a different age requirement. Check with that state’s boating authorities before heading out on the water.
- All vessels must be equipped with a personal flotation device for each person on board or being towed.
- The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requires that all vessels have at least one Type I, II, or III personal flotation device that is USCG—approved, wearable, and of the proper size for each person on board or being towed. Sizing for PFDs is based on body weight and chest size.
- Michigan's PFD law permits a vessel that is less than 16 feet long, or is a canoe or kayak, to choose to have either a wearable PFD (Type I, II, or III) or a throwable PFD (Type IV) for each person on board.
- In addition to the above requirements, one USCG—approved Type IV PFD must be on board vessels 16 feet or longer and be readily accessible.
- Michigan law requires all children under 6 years of age to wear a USCG—approved Type I or II PFD when riding on the open deck of any vessel.
- Each person under 12 years of age riding on or towed behind a PWC must wear a USCG–approved Type I or Type II personal flotation device.
- Each person over 12 years of age riding on or towed behind a PWC must wear a USCG–approved Type I, II, or III personal flotation device.
Inflatable PFDs are not allowed on PWCs.
- All PFDs must be in good and serviceable condition and must be readily accessible.
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
The U.S. Coast Guard has more life jacket information here.
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