Boat Safety for Kids
Gear and tips to keep your kids safe while boating
From choosing kid's life jackets that fit just right, to following your state's safety laws and rules, you can maximize fun for kids while staying safe boating.
Life Jacket Safety for Kids
The most important thing you can do to ensure your kid's safety on a boat is equip them with a properly fitting life jacket. Kids should wear life jackets whenever they are near on or on the water. In fact, according to the U.S. Coast Guard, federal law requires that when a vessel is underway, children under 13 years of age must wear their lifejacket.
LIFE JACKET REQUIREMENTS BY STATE: Rules for life jacket requirements by age varies by state in the U.S. Check out this interactive map by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) to find Life Jacket Rules by State.
Find Life Jackets for Kids by Size
Featured Videos
Kid's Boat Safety Articles
Boat Safety for Kids from Baby to Youth
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Is Your Child’s Life Jacket the Right Size and Fit?
In between life jacket sizes? Follow these tips to ensure you are getting the right kid's life jacket size for your growing child Many parents...
Gear up for Safety with the Right Life Jackets for Kids
How to choose the right life jackets for your boat kids by age and weight Water safety should be every parent’s primary concern around the water...
3 Reasons Parents Should Wear Life Jackets with Kids
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Is a Big Boat or Smaller Boat Better with Kids?
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Sun Protection Tips and Gear for Kids on Boats
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Boat Safety Courses for Teen Boaters
Teens on boats need proper boat safety education and training - especially when operating a boat on their own Kids that grow up on the...
Safe Boating Tips as a Family with Kids
Basic tips to make boating as a family both safe and enjoyable (for you and the kids) Boating can be one of the most enjoyable...
The Amazing Adventures of Boat Girl Book for Kids
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Can Kids Wear Inflatable Life Vests?
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Docking a Boat Safely with Kids on Board
Handling a boat in and out of a slip while ensuring safety of kids on your boat Even for the most experienced captain, maneuvering your...
How to Baby or Child Proof a Boat
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Are Kids Puddle Jumper Life Jackets Safe for Boating?
Coast Guard approved Puddle Jumper Life Jackets can help toddlers and kids learn to swim faster – but their use on a boat may be...
Is it Safe to Bring a Baby or Infant on a Boat?
Worried about taking your new baby boating? Here's how to make sure a baby or infant is safe boarding and cruising on a recreational boat...