Lifejackets essential

Lifejackets save lives. They’re ● the weather and sea conditions essential for all recreational activities you will encounter on the water. ● the local bylaws that may apply

All lifejackets must meet NZ to your region Standard 5823:2005 or another ● the sizes available for children standard accepted by Maritime

NZ. If not being worn they must Did you know?

be stowed in an easily accessible Most accidents occur suddenly location. This rule applies with no warning. There to all boats including tenders to may be no time to grab a larger craft. lifejacket unless it is close at

It is the skipper’s legal responsibility hand, and it is extremely difficult, to ensure that correctly if not impossible, to put on fitting lifejackets are a lifejacket once you are in the available for each person on water. board a vessel and must be Crotch straps are recommended

worn in situations of in situations other

heightened risk, such as when than very calm water.

crossing a bar, in rough water, Even when tightly secured, in an emergency and by anyone lifejackets have a tendency to who can’t swim. ride up on the wearer if there is

The right lifejacket will suit any wave action. Crotch straps your boating activities and are mandatory for all childsized crew. When choosing a lifejackets and in some lifejacket, consider: yacht racing situations.

● the type of recreational activities Size matters you do on water Most drownings in boating ● the distance you plan to accidents involve craft under 6 travel away from shore metres. Everyone on board boats under 6 metres should wear a lifejacket, unless the skipper has assessed this is not necessary, due to the low risk at the time.

It is recommended that nonswimmers and children wear lifejackets at all times.

For more information about the correct lifejacket for your situation visit: https:/ /www.maritimenz.govt.nz/recreational/safety/lifejackets/ lifejacket-types.asp