How to Select Children's Flotation Devices

Choose Flotation Devices for Boating

• 1

  Select only U.S. Coast Guard approved life vests for use on recreational boats. Approved life vests will have an approval statement on the label. These life vests are not only required to keep a child above water, they must also keep the face out of the water and the head upright.

• 2

  Select the proper size flotation device for your child. Children's life vests are approved for certain weights. Life vests are approved for 'less than 30 lbs', '30 to 50 lbs', 'less than 50 lbs' or '50 to 90 lbs.' Choosing the right size is crucial to the effectiveness of the life vest.

• 3

  Check with state boating safety officials to familiarize yourself with state laws about child flotation device usage. Some states require them at all times and other only when the boat is underway.

Choose Flotation Devices for Swimming

• 4

  Evaluate your child's water comfort level. It's important to objectively determine how comfortable your child is in the water when not being held onto.

• 5

  Select a flotation device to match your child's comfort level. Arm band floaties are good swim aids for children who are comfortable in the water and can almost swim. Meanwhile, children who are timid in the water should be fitted with flotation vests or swimsuits for their safety and to help improve confidence.