FWC suggests life jacket as Father’s Day gift

FWC suggests life jacket as Father’s Day gift

What better gift than one that is life-saving? The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has a suggestion for the perfect gift for Dad. Give him the life-saving gift of an inflatable life jacket for Father’s Day. You’ll make his day…and the gift might save his life some day.

The FWC investigates many of the boating accidents in Florida. So far this year, boating accidents have resulted in 16 people drowning. Most of these deaths could have been prevented had the victim been wearing a life jacket.

"We are doing our best to get boaters to wear life jackets all the time while on the water," said Capt. Richard Moore, FWC’s boating law administrator. "Life jacket technology has improved tremendously, and there are new inflatable life jackets which are more comfortable than traditional jackets and would make great presents."

One compact style straps around the waist like a belt pack. Another style fits like suspenders over the shoulders. Some of these life jackets inflate automatically when a person falls into the water. Prices of the new, comfortable, inflatable life jackets start at around $60.

West Marine, Inc. has partnered with the FWC in support of the Wear It Florida campaign, which encourages life jacket wear by Florida’s boaters. More information on the campaign is available at www.WearItFlorida.com.

"The best present anyone can receive is one that shows you care," Moore said. "Giving a life jacket as a present may save the life of your loved one."