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RALEIGH, N.C. (April 20, 2005) — As boating season revs up, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission reminds boaters that all children under age 13 must wear a lifejacket. Under new boating safety regulations that took effect nationwide two years ago, merely having a personal flotation device, or PFD, handy is no longer sufficient. Children must actually wear a PFD that is appropriately sized and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. The rule applies to all recreational vessels that are under way — that is, not anchored or tied to shore. Exceptions are for children who are below decks or inside an enclosed cabin. Commercial vessels are also exempt. For
more information on boating safety, consider taking one of the
many free courses offered statewide by the Wildlife
Commission.
Check for available
boating safety courses in your county. |