Recommendations for life jacket use in open water
Obtain national consensus on recommendations for use of life jackets and flotation aids while participating in open water recreational activities.
Progress Notes:
U.S. National Water Safety Action Plan Coalition, Inc. (USNWSAP). National Recommendations for U.S. Coast Guard Approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) and Life Jacket Use—A Working Document. 2026. (https://watersafetyplan.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/National-Recommendations-for-PFDs-and-Life-Jackets-Final-5-26.pdf); includes NI 3, NI 29 & NI 30; Specifically addresses Action Recommendation LJ 9.
Recommendations Addressed
Develop and implement national recommendations for use of life jackets and flotation aids while participating in open water recreational activities. Includes, but is not limited to: swimming, jumping, and floating during non-boating related activities, or while swimming off boats, platforms, aquatic play structures, or other watercraft under the auspices of organizations and agencies.
See new publication:
U.S. National Water Safety Action Plan Coalition, Inc. (USNWSAP). National Recommendations for U.S. Coast Guard Approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) and Life Jacket Use—A Working Document. 2026. (https://watersafetyplan.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/National-Recommendations-for-PFDs-and-Life-Jackets-Final-5-26.pdf)
Includes National Implications 3, 29 & 30; Specifically addresses Action Recommendation LJ 9.