NEW YORK -- There's a new state law in effect for boaters. It requires anyone on the water in a boat less than 21 feet long to wear a life jacketed between November 1 and May 1.
The law was put in place for good reason. Life jackets can often mean the difference between life and death. Across the state this year, seven boaters who weren't wearing life jackets were killed in cold-water accidents.
"Wearing a life jacket is the single best way boaters can prepare for the unexpected," said Andy Beers, Acting Commissioner of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. "Life jackets are critical to surviving cold-water boating accidents and could significantly reduce boating-related fatalities if universally worn during the colder months of the year."
Walter Taylor of the Coast Guard says too many boaters underestimate the dangers of unexpected immersion in cold water. Taylor recommends boaters, hunters and fishers venturing out during the colder months dress for cold water and carry a VHF radio, cell phone in a water-proof bag, flares, light and a whistle.
Being immersed in water colder than 68 degrees can induce an uncontrollable gasp reflex leading to the inhalation of water, cardiac arrest, the loss of swimming ability unconsciousness, and hypothermia.
Life jackets must also be worn year-round by children under 12 years of age on a boat less than 65 feet in length, unless within a fully enclosed cabin; by anyone engaging in towed activities, like water-skiers or wake-boarders; and while on board a personal watercraft. Also, a life jacket must be available for every passenger on board.
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Information from the Associated Press was used in this article.
