5 Life Vest “Musts” To Help Save A Child

It's summertime here in the Cowboy State - finally, and that means a lot of out door water fun with boats, water skies and rafts. Life jackets are a must.  Many people die in the water each year and the death could have been avoided, had the people been wearing a life jacket.

My brother-in-law lost his life years ago, because they were going to make "one more run" before going home. He didn't put his life jacket on and lost his life.

Here are 5 life jacket tips or ideas that just might save your life or the life of you children.

1. Put Them On - Don't just put them near your child in the boat, but put them on. Accidents happen fast, and you may not have enough time to don the life jacket in time.
2. The Right Fit - You determine the correct life vest based on your child's weight and height. Unlike regular pants and shirts, never buy a life jacket and expect your child to "grow into it." Buy the correct size for the height and weight of your child now.
3. Use Bright Colors - Bright orange, yellow or green's will help your child to be visible, should they end up in the water. Avoid Navy Blue's and Blacks as they are more difficult to see in the water.
4. Meet The Standards - Make sure that the life jacket you purchase meets the standards. Life rafts, inner tubes, and beach balls are not correct forms of life saving gear. Make sure you check for wear and tear every time you put it on.
5. Parental Supervision - The life jacket is not a replacement for parental supervision. A responsible, sober adult should be supervising children and others at all times. The life jacket is just an extra precautionary against drowning.

Just like we're told to buckle up before we drive, please buckle up those life jackets before you hit the water. Have a fun and safe summer!