Should wearing a lifevest be mandatory?

[Bugsbunnyboater]

Is wearing a lifevest something that should be mandatory? Or is not wearing one a risk that the boater just has to assume?

I look at it two ways.
1) Sometimes people need a push to be safe. Think of the lives saved by seat bealts.

2) As adults we have the right to assume some risk. We make judgement calls daily. You look at the pro's and cons and make an informed choice.

The issure did hit home a few years ago when some friends I know were in a boat that was swamped by waves and their was a lose of life.

[whistlingdixie]

I think in certain instances life jackets should be worn underway but should be at the discretion of the boater. I believe children under a certain age should have to wear lifejackets though.I hate that I have to wear a seat belt by law because two of my close friends both died due to a seatbelt in two seperate wrecks.

[Little-bit]

I'm going to say no. Its a choice unless you are not of age to make that choice.

I'm not a fan of these mandatory laws. First it was the motorcycle helmets then it was the seat belts now it will be life jackets next it will be CONDOMS! When will it stop?

[robul]

NO! Before you know it the government will restrict you too only 1 cup of coffee per day! No smokes either!! You cant make your own choices!! The government gets to decide now!! that's the way this country is heading! Children should have to wear them but if your an adult this is still a free country. Or is it not anymore?

[Little-bit]

I tried to vote but I like the current law better.

LIFESAVING DEVICES (PFDs) All PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES (PFDs) must be U.S. Coast Guard approved, in serviceable condition, readily accessible, and of the appropriate size for intended user. All children under 13 years of age in all vessels under 26 feet in length must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD while underway. Underway means not at anchor, made fast to the shore, or aground.
All vessels, including canoes and kayaks, must be equipped with one Type I, II, III or V wearable PFD for each person on board. AType V PFD is acceptable only if used in accordance with the specific instructions on the label of the device.
Vessels 16 feet and longer, excluding canoes and kayaks, are required to be equipped with one Type IV throwable PFD in addition to the Type I, II, III, or V PFD required for each person on board.
Inflatable PFDs are authorized only when used in accordance with requirements as presented on U.S. Coast Guard approval labels. Inflatable PFDs are not approved for use on personal watercraft, water skiing, or other high speed activity.

[polacko]

If the liberal law makers have there way we will all wear life jackets. No boats will have motors because motors hurt the environment and the props tear up Turtle Grass. You will have to row or sail your boat to your favorite fishing spots. All fish caught will have to be immediately measured photographed and released. Then you will be expected to pay a tax on the fish caught.
When will it all end?

[Gilbert]

no life jackets. if you fall out, you better know how to swim.

[Tankfxr]

Should be my own choice.

[paragod]

Never mind I had a big long reply but blew it off !

[bbqsdm]

Unless you are in my boat and then it is a rule - you have to wear one. But it is a type 5 that inflates when you hit the water. It is lightweight, cool, and comfortable. I fish offshore. It's not like a lake out there. The current moves at 3-4 knots. The waves may obscure seeing you if you go over. You could be lost before we spot you again. At least you are wearing a pfd, bright yellow and are higher up in the water. I have a better chance to find you.
I find no resistance to wearing them when I explain it that way.