HARRISBURG, Pa. (April 17) -- The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) reminds anglers and boaters that even as warmer temperatures arrive and the spring season begins to bloom across the Commonwealth, the annual cold weather life jacket requirement remains in effect through April 30.
“This time of year, despite the balmy springtime temperatures, it can be a tragic time for boaters who don’t wear their life jackets,” said Mark Sweppenhiser, Director of the PFBC’s Bureau of Boating. “On sunny days when warm air temperatures draw us outdoors for our favorite activities like fishing and boating, please remember water temperatures are still bitterly cold and present tremendous danger to someone who falls into the water.”
From November 1 through April 30, boaters are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket while underway or at anchor on boats less than 16 feet in length or on any kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. The requirement applies to all Pennsylvania waters and violators are subject to fines.
Sudden cold-water immersion, or cold-water shock, occurs when a person is unexpectedly plunged into cold water resulting in an involuntary gasp where water is often inhaled. This uncontrollable reaction causes panic, hyperventilation, inhalation of water, and inhibits the ability of a person to swim.
According to Pennsylvania boating accident reports, nearly 80% of all boating fatalities occurred because boaters were not wearing life jackets. Since the mandatory life jacket wear law was enacted in 2012, the PFBC has seen a significant drop (approximately 50%) in the percentage of boating incidents resulting in fatalities during the cold weather months.