idfg-badge

Idaho Fish and Game

Help Save A Life - Give Dad A Life Jacket For Father's Day

idfg-staff
LEWISTON - Father's Day is almost here and if your Dad is an angler or boater, a life jacket is both a great gift idea and something that may save a life. Last year, eight people drowned in fatal boating accidents in Idaho. The majority of the victims were not wearing life jackets and were enjoying smaller, non-motorized boats, such as canoes and rafts. According to Rick Cooper, conservation officer with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game in Lewiston, Federal and state boating safety laws require all boats to carry one Coast Guard-approved life jacket per person on board. Boats 16 feet or more in length (except canoes and kayaks) must also carry one "throwable" flotation device such as a buoyant cushion. "A new, U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket is one of the most thoughtful and practical gifts you could give a father who fishes or boats," Cooper said. Life jackets come in four types:
  • Type I jackets have the greatest buoyancy and are designed to hold an unconscious person in a slightly backward vertical position with his face out of the water. These jackets are best for large, cold waters where rescue could be delayed and the cold water causes victims to lose consciousness.
  • Type II jackets are smaller, more comfortable version of the Type I. They'll turn an unconscious wearer to a face-up vertical position in the water, but the turning action is not as strong.
  • Type III jackets or vests are the most popular because they are reasonably cool and comfortable to wear and accommodate activities such as fishing, canoeing and waterskiing. They are as buoyant as a Type II, but will not turn an unconscious victim to a face-up vertical position.
  • Type IV jackets are throwable floating boat cushions and life rings. They will support a person but are a poor choice for nonswimmers or children.
While there is a staggering selection of life jackets and other flotation devices on the market, new inflatable life jackets are comfortable and reasonably priced. Some models resemble a fat pair of suspenders while others are worn like a fanny pack. Most models are lightweight, comfortable and cost around $50 to 100 dollars.