Unit 1: Life Jackets

Life Jackets

1. Guiding Questions

   • Why is wearing a properly fitting life jacket the number 1 rule for safe boating practices?

   • What are the different types of life jackets and their specific purposes?

2. Learning Targets(Objectives)

   • I can put on and properly adjust a life jacket.

   • I know the life jacket laws for my specific state, boating activity, and age.

3. Key Vocabulary

   • PFD(Personal Floatation Device)

   • Bouyancy

   • USCG(United States Coast Guard)

   • CO2(Carbon Dioxide)

   • Type 1 PFD

   • Type 2 PFD

   • Type 3 PFD

   • Type 4 Throwable PFD

   • Type 5 Inflatable PFD

4. Optional Ideas for Instructional Practices

   • Wear It! Life Jacket Lesson for Teachers

     • https://docs.google.com/document/d/0BxUKJZQ_u4uFUEhXclpiaUdRM2RKd1BaeUpYR2s1d0g1Nmtv/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=111599690427810800555&resourcekey=0-F9bxUZXj36EnnNby8962aA&rtpof=true&sd=true

   • Life Jacket Fashion Show

     • • Purpose: To showcase different types of life jackets, how they are worn, special features of each life jacket, and different scenarios/use. This activity prompts the discussion that not all life jackets are created equal and knowing their differences enables us to make informed decisions about which life jacket to choose.

       • Materials: Several styles of life jackets, such as: off-shore, near-shore horse collar style, near-shore vest, ski vest, paddling vest, float coat, or fishing vest.

       • Discussion Points: Read the label to determine the intended use of your life jacket.  Having a life jacket that fits is better than having one with fancy features. There are lots of life jackets out there so you should find one that is comfortable for you.

   • Outdoor Activity

5. Supplemental Questions or Activities

   • Science Connection - Engineering and design:  What makes a material bouyant?  Why are certain materials and designs more efficient for use as a PFD?

6. Supplemental Videos

   • How to fit a life jacket

     • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMTyT7y6weU&t=4s

   • How life jackets save lives

     • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRlVFq9GfrU

7. Background Information for Instructors

   • National data shows that boating education significantly reduces the chance that someone will die from a boating accident.  Also, according to national data, where cause of death was known, 76% of fatal boating accident victims drowned. Of those drowning victims with reported life jacket usage, 84.5% were not wearing a life jacket. 

8. Additional Resources

   • Life Jacket Challenge Lessons for Teachers

     • https://drive.google.com/file/d/19JRnnRvLyWCkR_xi5o5wgJAKeT9K7Dmz/view?usp=sharing

9. Career Feature

   • Job Title: Water Patrol Officer - IA DNR

   • Job Description: This position is responsible for checking for compliance with Iowa’s navigation and fishing regulations, and helping to ensure a safe recreational environment for the public. Water patrol officers also provide assistance and safety education through personal contacts and occasionally participate in educational programs.

Life Jacket Types