Comox Valley Marine Rescue (CVMR) Station 60 starts its 2011 Kids Don't Float Program this May long weekend.
Loaner PFDs will be available at the Kids Don't Float Loaner Station at the Comox Marina Boat ramp from May 21 until September 5.
Boating families are encouraged to borrow PFDs to help their toddlers and small children stay afloat on the water.
When finished their marine activity, boaters and swimmers return the lifejackets to the display/storage board.
The Kids Don't Float loaner PF’s are also great for grandparents entertaining their visiting grandkids on the water or just to keep kids safe for a walk on the marina docks.
There will be a range of sizes available. Boaters will find a lifejacket to fit children from infants to 90 pounds.
Whether buying or borrowing, make sure the PDF fits.
PFDs are designed to fit snugly but comfortably.
Choose a PFD that matches your child’s weight and size.
The PFDs come in three sizes: infant — 20 to 30 pounds (nine to 14 kilograms), child — 30 to 60 pounds (14 to 27 kilograms) and youth — 60 to 90 pounds (27 to 41 kilograms). Consult the inside of the PFD to make your selection.
Select only a Transport Canada-approved PFD.
A simple test to see if your child’s PFD is fitted properly is to lift the child by the PFD. If the PFD rides up past the child’s ears, it is too loose and could slide over the child’s head in the water. If you can’t close the front of the PFD with the straps, it is too small.
A properly fitted life jacket is one where all the zippers and buckles can be fastened properly.
The Kids Don't Float campaign is an important part of CVMR Station 60’s Boating Safety Education Program.
Station 60 is able to provide these PFDs for use by the boating public in the Comox Valley through the support of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary Pacific (CCGA-P) and Mustang Survival Inc.
If you would like to volunteer with Station 60’s Boating Safety Program, contact us at cldupuis@shaw.ca
— Comox Valley Marine Rescue Station 60