Mandatory PFD wearing

[DennisS]

Most states have boating laws regarding the wearing of PFDs (life jackets). The federal government now wants to institute mandatory wearing of PFDs. Why? My guess would be an industry lobbying group.

http://www.ntsb.gov/academy/CourseInfo/MS701_200408.htm

 

[The Kraken]

I would hazard a guess it's possibly because states don't have jurisdiction over federal properties and therefore can't enforce PFD regulations on federal owned water recreational areas. The legislation would then allow the National Park Service Rangers to enforce PFD regulations.

 

[Chuck Tribolet]

It's not the National Parks, but the ocean. And most
states DON'T have a mandatory PFD law, except for little
kids.

Such a law would make it difficult to do a live-boat dive,
as you would have to take the PFD off to put your gear
on.

 

[dlwalke]

It's not the National Parks, but the ocean. And most
states DON'T have a mandatory PFD law, except for little
kids.

Such a law would make it difficult to do a live-boat dive,
as you would have to take the PFD off to put your gear
on.

Anyone know how much flotation you get from a 3 mil wetsuit? It feels nearly as much to me as I get from my kayak PFD.

Dave

 

[Uncle Pug]

Now wouldn't that be just peachy... the feds will probably decide I need to wear a PFD while sleeping on my trawler.

 

[Chuck Tribolet]

You wetsuit isn't a CG-approved PFD, so the amount of
floatation it gives isn't relevant.

 

[nwdiver2]

In Canada the size of the boat matters small boat wear it, large boat have it handy.

 

[Furner]

AFAIK, most states require having PFDs onboard and readily available, not actually wearing at all times. Might be different for recreational watercraft (jetskis), but for boats, dont think its an issue.