Free loaner lifejackets are available for children through a program offered by BoatU.S. Foundation. Several sites around the Bay are participating life jacket loaner program locations, and nationwide more than 550 sites collectively loan out the jackets approximately 140,000 times each year.
Theresa Duck administers the program at Herrington Harbour North in Tracys Landing, MD. Duck says, “Along with the lifejackets, the BoatU.S. Foundation provides signs that promote the program and show how to properly wear the jackets. Together they help us promote boater safety. BoatU.S. representatives check-in periodically to see how the program is working, and about once a year I go through our stock and reach out if I need anything new.”
Nancy Gardner, a ranger at Sandy Point State Park and volunteer coordinator with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, says “The BoatU.S. lifejacket program is a great service to Sandy Point State Park boaters. This is the second year for us, and it continues to be popular, mainly with our weekend boaters. Once the season starts, we may have two or three folks a week coming in to borrow a jacket. The marina has signs identifying this free program and explaining safety regulations. This may be the first time some boaters realize they need a specific size and style jacket for the youngsters.”
Annapolis Harbormaster Beth Mauk says, “The BoatU.S. program keeps a PFD tree here at the harbormaster building. They really have value for the boaters who pick up an additional person and need something right away. As I’m sure your readers know, 90 percent of drowning victims were not wearing a PFD, so we are happy to participate.”
There is no charge for the use of lifejackets, and the BoatU.S. Foundation replenishes the supply as needed. Marinas, boat clubs, waterfront restaurants, or government agencies may apply at any time at no cost. Approved locations receive a kit containing 12 lifejackets sized from infant to youth, as well as signage and a local publicity kit.