The first time I went boating, it was with a small group of family friends in Muskoka, Ontario, and we were having the perfect getaway weekend. We enjoyed sun-drenched weather all week and the views of the water from the boat made for the ultimate Instagram shots!
Deciding to take a leap into the lake from the boat to cool off, we double-checked our life jackets were secure and hopped into the water . . .
Unfortunately, I did not bring my safety equipment and was at the mercy of whatever the host had available. Keep reading to learn what happened next and why properly fitting life jackets are so important!
Everyone Needs a Life Jacket That Fits
As a result of not having my own equipment, I ended up with an old, ratty-looking life jacket that my great-grandfather could have easily worn. When I jumped into the water, the PFD (personal floatation device) proved to be much too big, pretty much engulfing me as soon as I hit the water.
Luckily, the weather was good, and the water was relatively shallow, so the only issue was the embarrassing (albeit hilarious) photograph my friends took of me being swallowed by my personal floatation device. But, in an emergency situation, this would have been dangerous and could have proved disastrous!
Captains Must Provide the Right Equipment
Life jackets are an essential part of boater safety, and it is your responsibility as a captain to provide well-fitting life jackets to all passengers in your boat, even if it’s man-powered. Are you going for a slow row in your canoe with a friend? You’ll need two life jackets.
- Taking a tour around the harbour with your family? Make sure that each passenger has a PFD that fits them properly, and strap yourselves in.
- Going fishing alone? Wear your life jacket! Also, be aware that different PFDs are recommended for different activities.
You wouldn’t go wakeboarding in a fishing life jacket, so make sure you know what safety equipment to use and when.
How to Choose Life Jackets
When choosing a PFD or life jacket, it is important to note how it fits you; it should fit snugly but not too tight. It is essential to check that your device is appropriate for your size and weight.
- A PFD that’s too small won’t keep you afloat.
- One that’s too big may not keep your head out of the water.
Be aware of the additional safety features on children’s PFDs, including a collar neck and head support, reflective tape for additional visibility, and a strap between the legs to fasten the vest securely.
Check PFDs Before Use Each Season
Your device should be checked at the beginning of every season and on a regular on-going basis to make sure that it’s still in working condition. Also, perform buoyancy checks throughout the year by wading into the water, ensuring the device doesn’t allow your chin to submerge.
Check the straps for signs of wear, and make sure that you store and care for the device properly. Ideal locations for PFD storage are easily accessible and well-ventilated areas of the boat, away from any chemicals or gasoline.
Neglected safety equipment runs the risk of wearing out faster due to typically wet and warm environments, causing them to be unfit for use; life jackets could start growing mold if not cared for properly.
Only Use Approved Jackets
Your life jackets must be approved by Transport Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard, or the Fisheries and Oceans of Canada to be deemed “serviceable.” To check if your PFD is approved, take a look at the label on the inside.
Learn More About Boating Safely with BOATsmart!
BOATsmart! is your authority when it comes to boating safety and training. Our official boating course, approved by Transport Canada, will get you certified to be out on the water in as little as three hours. You can even print out a temporary license as soon as you pass our exam.
Register for your course and start learning, then get your boater card! If you lose your card at any point or want extras for the cottage, boat, and your wallet, no worries — you can order them right from our website.
Originally published in 2020. Content most recently reviewed and updated for accuracy and relevancy September 13, 2024.
