⚙️ Vessel & Passenger Parameters
Federal Rule 33 CFR § 175.15: Children under 13 must wear an approved USCG Life Jacket while vessel is underway unless below deck or in an enclosed cabin.
🦺 With USCG Approved Child PFD
Type II / I Flotation
| Hydrostatic Buoyancy Lift | +7.5 lbs buoyant lift |
| Face-Up Turnover Time | < 3.0 seconds (Self-Righting) |
| Freeboard (Mouth Above Water) | 3.8 inches (Airway clear) |
| Grab Collar & Crotch Strap | MANDATORY ACTIVE |
⚠️ Without Life Jacket (Accidental Immersion)
Critical Risk
| Effective In-Water Buoyancy | -2.1 lbs (Negative/Sinking) |
| Cold Shock Involuntary Gasp | Immediate (0.5s) |
| Drift at 5 kts Boat Speed | 84 ft in 10 seconds |
| Submersion Reflex Margin | < 10 seconds without assist |
📋 USCG Compliance & Departure Safety Protocol
Recommended USCG PFD Specification
Type II Infant/Child (Under 30 lbs) with oversized head-support float collar, grab recovery loop, and dual-buckle crotch strap.
Legal Operator Liability
The designated vessel master / boat operator is legally responsible and subject to civil/criminal maritime citations for any unjacketed minor under 13 while underway.