From U.S. Coast Guard:

Nearly twice as many children ages 12 and under drowned in 2006 compared to 2005 – an alarming trend that is prompting the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Department of
Homeland Security to take part in “Fit to Float,” a unique, nationwide water-safety campaign focused on replacing thousands of old lifejackets with new ones.

On the eve of “National Safe Boating Week,” prominent water safety experts say just putting your child in any old lifejacket isn’t enough. “Fit to Float” educates people on the importance of a proper fitting lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) that is in good condition. Old, sun-faded, waterlogged, leaky or ill-fitting lifejackets should be replaced, according to Commodore Ed Sweeneyof the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Department of Homeland Security.

Sweeney says you need to check lifejackets for wear and buoyancy at least once a year. “Lifejackets don’t’ last forever, “ Sweeney said. “Truth is, lifejackets get worn out and lose their effectiveness. Relying on a marginal lifejacket is gambling with your life.”

This is the second year of “Fit to Float,” which was created by Stearns Inc., the world’s leading manufacturer of lifejackets. The campaign features a used lifejacket exchange program at Bass Pro Shops around the country. Last year the campaign collected more than 1,700 old and ill fitting lifejackets. The goal this year is to replace 5,000 lifejackets.

“A poor fitting lifejacket can sometimes do more harm than good,” Sweeney said. “Lifejackets that are too big will push up around your face and prevent you from breathing. Lifejackets that are too small won’t keep you afloat. Also, lifejackets meant for adults do not work for children.”

U.S. Coast Guard Statistics (2006 – most recent):

- Nearly twice as many children (Age 12 and under) in the U.S. drowned in 2006 (15)
than in !05 (8)
- 29 children (12 and under) died in boating incidents in !06 compared to 21 in !05
- 710 water-related deaths nationwide in !06 – up from 697 in !05 and 676 in !04
- Most water-related deaths since 2002

The public can trade-in their old or ill-fitting lifejackets Saturday and Sunday May 17-18 at select Bass Pro Shop stores (including Nashville) around the country.

 In exchange, people will receive a discount off the purchase of a new light, less restrictive Stearns® lifejacket or Sospenders® inflatable lifejacket. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Stearns Safety Team will be on hand during store hours to demonstrate the proper fit of a lifejacket, discuss the tell-tale signs of wear and tear on a lifejacket and answer all other boating or water-related safety questions.