The Stanley Law Offices

If you are involved in a boating accident, your risk of drowning is much greater if you are not wearing a life jacket. Of the 474 drowning deaths reported in 2006, 423 were not wearing a life jacket. In order to raise awareness of this important boating safety step, the National Safe Boating council has declared May 17 through May 23 as Safe Boating Week, with special emphasis on wearing life jackets.

You might think that wearing a life jacket is for sissies, or that they are too cumbersome. But the days of those one-size fits all orange things we used to wear at camp are long gone. There are many lightweight and comfortable styles available today, and you'll be able to find one to accommodate your the specific activity.

• A Type I jacket is made for rough conditions where extended survival may be necessary. Most of them are specially designed to ensure that an unconscious victim floats face up.
• A Type II jacket is designed for use closer to shore, to be worn where you can expect a relatively quick rescue. They are less expensive than other types and are the most common jacket available. However, they are also designed to help you float face up.

Just wearing a life jacket isn't enough unless it fits you well. To check for proper fit, raise your hands over your head and have someone tug up on the jacket. The jacket should not show a large gap over the shoulders, or come up into your face. If it does, you'll need to get a different size. And of course, make sure the jacket is properly buckled and fastened.

If you have been involved in a boating accident and sustained property damage or personal injury, please contact the Stanley Law Offices as soon as possible to identify your options and protect your rights.