Youth and Child Life Vests
Small children should have a child life vest on at all times when on or even near the water. It is vital that the fit and size of any child life vest is weight appropriate. Children typically wear their life vest more frequently and for longer periods of time than adults, so in addition to ensuring the correct US Coast Guard rating, it is important that the child life vest you purchase will fit securely without hampering mobility and without rubbing or causing irritation. For more information on choosing the best child life vest or US Coast Guard life vest ratings, see our Life Vest Resource Articles. For infant life vests (under 30 lbs.) see our Infant Life Vest category.
Selecting a Child Life Vest
The typical size range for a child life vest is 30-50 pounds, and 50-90 pounds for a youth size. Federal law requires that children 12 and younger must be wearing a U.S. Coast Guard approved child life vest at all times, not simply have a child life vest available somewhere in the boat. Make sure you are aware of any state specific requirements where you live before purchasing a child life vest. You can find more information on state laws here: http://www.nasbla.net/referenceguide/index.php?queryID=4.9
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