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Chapter 2: Boating Safety

PFD Rules and Regulations

Here are some helpful rules to keep in mind regarding Personal Flotation Devices:

  • If being towed behind a vessel, one is considered on board that vessel and therefore must be wearing a personal flotation device. They also contribute to the number of required flotation devices.
  • Anyone being towed behind a vessel, for water sports, must wear their PFDs at all times.
  • If driving or riding on a personal watercraft, one will need to wear a PFD at all times.
  • Inflatable PFDs are not approved for anyone under the age of 16.
  • Inflatable PFDs are not approved for high-speed, high-impact activities (i.e. water skiing and personal watercraft use).
PFD Rules and Regulations

Remember, the U.S. Coast Guard requires one to have a Personal Flotation Device for everyone on board and that it is the right size for its intended user.