Not a silly question (life jackets)

[Patriot]

ok, Oswego Harborfest is just around the corner. If I have 10 guests sitting in by boat (at the dock, motor not running), do I need 10 life jackets? I took and passed the US Coastguard Auxiliary course 24 years ago and just don’t remember all the regs.

[LongLine]

If in the boat then yes. If on the dock then no.

Please don't overload your boat, even at the dock. Boats can capsize even at the dock.

Tom B.

(LongLine)

[Patriot]

The reason I ask is because I can only find on the internet where it says (while under power). Nothing about tied up to the dock. It would be helpful if someone had something in print.

[LongLine]

If you want to be foolish then go ahead...but don't expect my tax dollars to pay for the ambulance/resusitation costs for partygoers.

Enough of my opinion..here's some print right from the Coast Guard:

http://www.uscgboating.org/safety/life_ ... acket.aspx

To meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements, a boat must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type I, II, III, or V life jacket for each person aboard. Boats 16 feet and over must have at least one Type IV throwable device as well.

Note it says "each person aboard". If it was strickly for boats under power, then ragboats, canoes, kayaks, rowboats etc would be exempted...which they are not.

Tom B.

(LongLine)

[bandrus1]

woah what is a type 4 throwable device?

[bandrus1]

ok a seat cushion style... all set there

[LongLine]

Make sure that seat cushion style has the proper tag on it and hasn't been sat on. CG often looks at whether the "stuffing's been squished."

Tom B.

(LongLine)

[fishhunter22]

i would make sure one life jacket per person while in the water. docked or moving dont matter. check everything now, theres ALOT of patrolling that weekend. cover all bases, cross every t dot every i. good luck and be safe.

[Patriot]

Just called US Coast Guard in Oswego and asked the question. Their answer was NO, only if the boat leaves the dock, then you need a lifejacket for every person..