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

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. According to Ann Van Buren, boating safety coordinator with the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation in Boise, seven people died in fatal boating accidents in Idaho last year. All seven victims were male and six were not wearing a life jacket. "A new, Coast Guard Approved life jacket is one of the most thoughtful and practical gifts you could give a father who fishes or boats," Van Buren said. Both 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 of any length) must also carry one "throwable" flotation device such as a buoyant cushion or life-ring. Additionally, children 14 years of age and younger onboard vessels 19 feet or less must wear an approved life jacket when the vessel is underway. Life jackets come in four types:

áType 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. 



áType 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.



áType 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 water-skiing. They are as buoyant as a Type II, but will not turn an unconscious victim to a face-up vertical position.



áType 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 pair of suspenders while others are worn like a fanny pack. Most models are lightweight, comfortable and are reasonably priced.