Make Sure Your Kids Have Life Jackets That Fit and They Wear Them

With more and more people hitting the water across the Northland, it's a perfect time to review child life jacket laws to make sure everyone is safe and compliant.

Simply stated, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds everyone that a legal measure went into effect in 2005 that requires children under age ten to wear a life jacket while boating in Minnesota.

There are only three exemptions to this law:

When in an enclosed cabin or below the top deck on a watercraft.
When on an anchored boat that is a platform for swimming or diving.
When aboard a charter (passenger) craft with a licensed captain.

While it's important to have life jackets on kids, it's equally important to make sure that their life jackets fit properly. Never buy a life jacket that your kids will grown into, make sure it fits right now.

The fit should be good and snug, with a strap between the legs for younger kids. All life jackets should have the U.S. Coast Guard approved label.

Click here for complete tips and guidelines to make sure you have the right life jackets for your kids and have a great time out on the water.