News Release
For Immediate Release March 13, 2015
Contact: John Winkler, General Manager 
Cell Phone 402-616-2457

Wearing Life Jackets Saves Lives

Boaters enjoy the experience of being on the water and close to nature. It is a wonderful way to enjoy a warm summer day. It may be tempting to pilot or ride in a boat without the safety benefits awarded by life jackets or other types of flotation devices. Experience shows however, that being around a boat dock or in a boat is much safer when personal flotation devices are worn.

"As the summer progresses we are seeing many people floating on the Elkhorn and Platte Rivers without life vests," said Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District General Manager John Winkler. "All lakes and especially our local rivers should be respected for the potential dangers that can be encountered." 

The NRD operates three Omaha-area lakes plus three Elkhorn River access parks and one Platte River site. "We want everyone visiting our parks to enjoy themselves, but be safe while they are on or near the water," added Winkler.

Nebraska law requires that every vessel of any description, except sailboards, must carry one U.S. Coast Guard-approved flotation device of suitable size for each person on board, plus one U.S. Coast Guard-approved throwable device in each boat, except for personal watercraft canoes, kayaks and sailboards.

All children age 12 and under must wear a personal flotation device of appropriate size except while hunting waterfowl from an anchored boat. 

Things to Know:

• Certain life jackets are designed to keep your head above water and help you remain in a position which permits proper breathing. 

• Adult-sized life jackets will not work for children. Special life jackets are available. To work correctly, a life jacket must be worn, fit snugly, and not allow the child's chin or ears to slip through.

• Life jackets should be tested for wear and buoyancy at least once each year. 

• Waterlogged, faded, or leaky jackets should be discarded.

• Life jackets must be properly stowed allowing easy access when needed.

• A life jacket - especially a snug-fitting flotation coat or deck-suit style - can help you survive in cold water.

• How Do Life Jackets Save Lives?

• When capsized in rough water.

• When thrown from the boat as a result of a collision.

• When injured by rocks or submerged objects.

• When unconscious.

• When tossed into freezing water.

• When thrown off balance while fishing.

• When unable to swim because of heavy or waterlogged clothing.