Updated May 07, 2012.
If you are planning to take your child on a boat ride or spend a great deal of time in the water, you will need an appropriate-sized child or baby life jacket to keep him protected. Before you run out to the sporting goods store and pick up any personal floatation device (PFD), be sure you've considered what makes a good life jacket for children.
Know the Law of the Waters
If you are going to take your child out on the water, make sure you are familiar with the laws for the water.
You will want to be in compliance with federal, state, and Coast Guard boating requirements. Additionally, you'll need to be well-versed in boating safety. Depending on what type of boat you will be on, the kind of personal floatation device might vary.
The Appropriate Size for a Child or Baby Life Jacket
It is absolutely imperative that you purchase the right size life jacket for your baby or child. For babies, personal floatation devices are generally sized by their weight. Though your baby will grow quickly, do not be tempted to "size-up". Purchase the size that reflects your baby's current weight. For older children, keep that same principle in mind.
To make sure you have the right size, pick your child up by the shoulders of the PFD. If chin or ears slip below the neck opening, it's too large.
Safety Features of Personal Floatation Devices
PFDs can be designed with different safety features. When buying one for a baby or child, you might feel comfortable using one with added safety elements.
Some design features worth considering include:
Consider Comfort
While safety features should be your primary focus, you'll also want to make sure you consider comfort. It certainly wouldn't make for an enjoyable family outing to listen to your child fuss over how uncomfortable his PFD is.
The good news- new design and technology has made life jackets more comfortable to wear. PFDs aren't nearly as bulky as the once were, and jackets made of Neoprene (verses nylon) are much more comfortable next to the skin. With all of this in mind, you'll be sure to find the perfect life jacket for your baby or child that is both safe and comfortable.
See also: Before You Take Your Baby Biking
If you are planning to take your child on a boat ride or spend a great deal of time in the water, you will need an appropriate-sized child or baby life jacket to keep him protected. Before you run out to the sporting goods store and pick up any personal floatation device (PFD), be sure you've considered what makes a good life jacket for children.
Know the Law of the Waters
If you are going to take your child out on the water, make sure you are familiar with the laws for the water.
You will want to be in compliance with federal, state, and Coast Guard boating requirements. Additionally, you'll need to be well-versed in boating safety. Depending on what type of boat you will be on, the kind of personal floatation device might vary.
The Appropriate Size for a Child or Baby Life Jacket
It is absolutely imperative that you purchase the right size life jacket for your baby or child. For babies, personal floatation devices are generally sized by their weight. Though your baby will grow quickly, do not be tempted to "size-up". Purchase the size that reflects your baby's current weight. For older children, keep that same principle in mind.
To make sure you have the right size, pick your child up by the shoulders of the PFD. If chin or ears slip below the neck opening, it's too large.
Safety Features of Personal Floatation Devices
PFDs can be designed with different safety features. When buying one for a baby or child, you might feel comfortable using one with added safety elements.
Some design features worth considering include:
- A Handle: Some PFDs have a built in handle which make lifting the child out of the water or holding on to them while in the water much easier.
- Head Suppport: Look for life jackets that are designed to keep the wearer face up in the water.
- Crotch Strap: A crotch strap can be helpful at keeping the jacket in place and worn properly.
Consider Comfort
While safety features should be your primary focus, you'll also want to make sure you consider comfort. It certainly wouldn't make for an enjoyable family outing to listen to your child fuss over how uncomfortable his PFD is.
The good news- new design and technology has made life jackets more comfortable to wear. PFDs aren't nearly as bulky as the once were, and jackets made of Neoprene (verses nylon) are much more comfortable next to the skin. With all of this in mind, you'll be sure to find the perfect life jacket for your baby or child that is both safe and comfortable.
See also: Before You Take Your Baby Biking