Which type of personal flotation device (PFD) is required for children under the age of 6 when on board a boat?

Children under the age of 6 are required to wear a US Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) when on board a boat. This requirement is in place to ensure the safety of young passengers, as they are particularly vulnerable in the event of accidents or emergencies on the water. US Coast Guard-approved PFDs are specifically designed to provide buoyancy and keep the wearer afloat, reducing the risk of drowning.

While inflatable PFDs are a popular choice for many adult boaters due to their comfort and compactness, they are not recommended for young children because they may not provide adequate support in case of sudden immersion in water. Moreover, there are different types of PFDs that can be used, but the requirement for children focuses on the US Coast Guard’s approval to ensure maximum safety standards are met. This regulation underscores the importance of choosing the right type of PFD based on the age and size of the person wearing it.