Video: Georgia PFD Requirements
Press the play button (▶) above to start the video.
Video Transcript
Rob
All right. So we’re out here on the boat in Georgia with conservation ranger Kate Hargrove. She’s going to fill us in on what you need to have on the boat as far as life jackets—PFDs.
Ranger First Class Hargrove
Well Rob, while on the water, each vessel must have on board a wearable life vest for each person on board. They need to be in good, serviceable condition and readily accessible. They should not be stowed in locked compartments. Also, it needs to be the intended size for the wearer. This would be based on their chest size and body weight. If you look on the inside of the vest, each vest will be Coast Guard–approved and will usually tell you the intended size for the wearer.
Rob
So, just, so basically what you’re saying is just because you have five life jackets, if you have five people on the boat, doesn’t really matter. You have to make sure that they fit the person.
RFC Hargrove
Correct.
Rob
And you’ve got to make sure all of the buckles work and they’re actually functioning.
RFC Hargrove
Yes, they’re in good condition. Yes.
Rob
OK, and this—this is a throwable device. So this is in addition to every life jacket that everybody has.
RFC Hargrove
Correct. Any vessel greater than 16 feet needs to have a throwable device on board. And this will also be Coast Guard–approved.
Rob
And throwable devices aren’t always those big rings. I guess this counts, right? This is just a seat cushion, but it’s—
RFC Hargrove
These seat cushions are commonly found, yes.
Rob
And they have the stamp, so it’s Coast Guard–approved. Important.
RFC Hargrove
Correct. Because of the safety issue involved, we don’t want anybody on the water without having a life jacket accessible to them. And what I’m wearing here is an inflatable life vest, and this will inflate if you go into the water or if you have an emergency. They’re a lot more comfortable and cool in the summer. However, they should not be worn by children under 90 pounds because they could easily slip out of them.
Rob
And the best life jacket is the one you’re wearing. Those look ideal.
