DID YOU KNOW?
Not wearing a Lifejacket or PFD (Personal Flotation Device) is a major contributing factor in many boating-related deaths. Think of a Lifejacket or PFD as your seatbelt for the water; it’s your best defense if an unexpected situation arises. The evidence is compelling: 8 out of 10 people who drown in boating incidents were not wearing one.
THE TERM “LIFEJACKET” FOR WATER SAFETY
- When you see the term “Lifejacket” in water safety information, it’s often used as a general term for all approved safety vests designed for the water, including what are technically known as PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices).
- Many organizations use the term “Lifejacket” to keep their safety messages clear and easy to understand for everyone, but it’s important to know the difference.
LIFEJACKETS & PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES (PFDs)
- Lifejackets are usually more bulky and offer more flotation; they are designed to turn a person face-up in the water, even if they are unconscious.
- A personal flotation device (PFD) will keep a person floating, but not necessarily face-up. In addition, a PFD is lighter and less bulky than a Lifejacket.
THE APPROVAL LABEL: WHAT TO LOOK FOR
- When selecting a Lifejacket or PFD, always check for a label indicating approval by one of the following authorities: Transport Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard, or Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
WEAR PROPERLY FITTED LIFEJACKETS & PFDs
- Wear a properly fitted Lifejacket or PFD at all times when you are in a boat, canoe, kayak, sailboat, as well as when windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding etc. Remember, as an adult, you are a role model for children and should wear a Lifejacket or PFD as well.
- Lifejackets or PFDs for children have weight limits. However, adult sizes are based on chest measurements and body weight.
- Make sure the Lifejacket or PFD is comfortable and light so it will be worn.
- Bright colours like red, orange, and yellow offer the best visibility and stand out most effectively.
- Note: The fit should be snug; for children, it should not ride up over their ears when they are placed in the water; check the space between the Lifejacket/PFD and the child’s shoulders … if it’s more than about three fingers width—the Lifejacket/PFD is too big.
- It’s crucial to buckle or zip the Lifejacket or PFD up every time and use all its safety straps … you could slip out of a Lifejacket or PFD that’s too big or not buckled or zipped up properly.
REGULARLY INSPECT LIFEJACKETS & PFDs FOR THE FOLLOWING:
- Faded or brittle straps.
- Broken buckles or zippers.
- Tears and rips in the fabric.
- Loss of buoyancy (it shouldn’t feel waterlogged).
- Ensure there is a whistle—all Lifejackets should be equipped with a whistle.
MAINTAIN LIFEJACKETS & PFDs
- Replace any damaged or worn-out Lifejackets or PFDs immediately.
- Store them in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
WHEN TO WEAR A LIFEJACKET OR PFD?
- To ensure the safety of young children and weak swimmers, Lifejackets and PFDs are a must whenever they are in, on, or around water. Remember, even with a Lifejacket or PFD, constant direct supervision and staying within arms reach are critically important.
- Everyone should always wear Lifejackets or PFDs when riding in a boat or other type of water related crafts etc.
- Remember, inflatable toys such as water rings and blow-up rings are not safety devices!
- Canadian laws require that recreational boats have one properly fitted Lifejacket or PFD for each person on the boat, but there’s no law requiring people to wear the Lifejackets or PFDs. Nevertheless, Lifejackets and PFDs only work if you wear them.
- Also, if you’re visiting somewhere where you’ll be near water, bring a Lifejacket or PFD. The place you’re visiting may not have a Lifejacket or PFD that fits.
YOUNG CHILDREN’S LIFEJACKETS & PFDs SHOULD HAVE SPECIAL FEATURES
For young children, their Lifejacket or PFD should also have the following special features:
- A large collar (for head support).
- A strap that buckles between the legs so the Lifejacket or PFD will not slip over the child’s head.
- A pealess whistle; attach a plastic pealess whistle to the safety vest if it doesn’t already have one. It’s also important to teach young children how to use the whistle effectively in case of an emergency.
- A waist strap that can adjust so as to make the Lifejacket or PFD fit snugly.
- Tie and/or a sturdy plastic zipper.
- Bright colour and reflective tape to help you see your child in the water.
NO CANADIAN-APPROVED INFANT-SIZED LIFEJACKETS & PFDs
- It’s important to note that no Canadian-approved Lifejackets or PFDs exist for infants weighing less than nine kilograms (20 pounds). There are “infant-sized” Lifejackets and PFDs on the market, but there are no Canadian safety standards for these devices.
- Safety experts recommend waiting until a child is at least nine kilograms (20 pounds) and can properly fit into a Canadian-approved Lifejacket or PFD before taking them on a boat.
- Most babies will reach nine kilograms (20 pounds) between 9 and 12 months old.
“ALWAYS ON” WATER SAFETY ACT: A NATION-WIDE SHIFT
Imagine a future where wearing a Lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) is a federal requirement across all of Canada, not just a recommendation. How would this significant change be received across our vast country? Hmm. I wonder …
OTTAWA, Canada, January 2, 2032 – Five years after the landmark “Always On” Water Safety Act, 2027, came into effect, Canada’s waterways are dramatically safer, showcasing a remarkable transformation in aquatic recreation. Since 2027, when the federal mandate made wearing a Lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) compulsory for anyone on the water, incidents of near drowning, as well as drowning have plummeted across Canada.
Remember, taking the time to learn and practice injury prevention costs you nothing. Failing to do so, could lead to the unthinkable … the loss of your life and the lives of those you hold dear.
Safety—it starts with you.
