National Life Jacket Day
Posted May 19, 2011 05:43:40 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
SAINT JOHN – With the unfortunate examples set recently of what can happen when you aren’t wearing a personal flotation device, timing couldn’t be better for National Life Jacket Day.
Today is a day of awareness for the use of a personal flotation device.
Wayne Young of the Red Cross appeared on The Morning News and says people are under the misconception that they are invincible and will be able to swim to an island and back.
“You’re not going to be able to do it without that PFD on,” says Young. “So please – thats what were urging Canadians, Atlantic Canadians, this weekend and for the rest of the summer; whenever you’re on your boat, a PFD has to be worn at all times.”
Young says even if you are a great swimmer, with the water this time of year, there is only so much time you will stay afloat on your own.
“If you’re not wearing your PFD, depending on your body size and your body weight, you’ve got ten minutes of continuous movement with your arms and legs before that’s going to stop.”
He says the use of a PFD will keep you above water and allow you to clear your airway and plan your next move.
