Be A Lifesaver - Place A Life Jacket Under The Holiday Tree

LEWISTON - - Those last minutes shoppers looking for the perfect gift for someone who likes to fish or boat can solve the gift-giving dilemma by giving a new life jacket, float coat or buoyant boat cushion. "Today's life jackets and float coats are more comfortable than ever before," said Rick Cooper, conservation officer with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. "There's no reason a boater shouldn't be wearing one at all times while on the water." While there is a staggering selection of life jackets and other flotation devices on the market, new inflatable life jackets are readily available and reasonably priced. Most resemble a fat pair of suspenders that inflate by pulling a ripcord, while others are worn like a fanny pack. Both models are lightweight and comfortable, making them more likely to be worn. The "float coat" resembles a long-sleeved jacket that provides flotation and much needed insulation during those chilly days on the water. Besides camouflaged models for hunters, there are even styles cut in women's sizes that are both comfortable and stylish. Federal and state boating laws require all boats, including canoes and kayaks, to carry one Coast Guard approved, wearable life jacket for each person on board. Boats 16-feet or more in length, except canoes and kayaks, must also carry at least one approved, Type IV, throwable flotation device such as a buoyant seat cushion or ring. According to the Idaho Parks and Recreation, the number of boating fatalities has decreased from eight during 2001, to only two by mid-December 2002. Both of this year's fatalities involve persons using manually propelled craft such as a canoe and catamaran.