What advice should you give about PFD use for children?

• A. Ensure every child wears a properly fitted PFD whenever the vessel is underway.
• B. Children may ride without a PFD if seated.
• C. PFDs are optional for children on calm days.
• D. PFDs are only required for children under 2.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is to prioritize constant flotation protection for kids by having them wear a PFD whenever the boat is moving. A properly fitted life jacket stays on securely and keeps a child afloat if they fall into the water, which is crucial even on calm days or when the child seems to be seated and safe. Make sure the PFD is U.S. Coast Guard–approved and sized to the child’s weight and chest measurement, with all straps snug and fastened. If the model has a crotch strap, use it to prevent the jacket from sliding up. Since children grow, regularly check fit and replace as needed so the jacket remains effective.

Other ideas—like riding without a PFD when seated, or PFDs being optional on calm days, or PFDs only needed for very young children—don’t provide reliable protection. Drowning can happen quickly, and the safest, most practical advice is that every child wears a properly fitted PFD whenever the vessel is underway.