Trauma Survivors Network - provided by ATS

Survive. Connect. Rebuild.

A Program of the ATS

Personal Floatation Device (PFD) or Life Jacket

In 2003, 62 percent of children ages 14 and under who drowned in reported recreational boating accidents were not wearing PFDs or life jackets. It is estimated that 85 percent of boating-related drownings could have been prevented if the victim had been wearing a PFD. Several safety laws and regulations protect children from drowning-related hazards. Forty-four states have enacted laws that require children to wear PFDs while participating in recreational boating. These laws vary in age requirements, exemptions and enforcement procedures. Recreational boats must carry one properly sized, U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD, accessible and in good condition, for each person on board.

Facts about Childhood Drowning
Safe Kids Worldwide
www.usa.safekids.org/NSKW