Every day, an approximate ten people die from unintentional drowning. Of these, two are children aged 14 or younger. Drowning ranks fifth among unintentional injury death in the United States.For every child who dies from drowning, an additional five will receive emergency care for non-fatal injuries. Children ages 1 to 4 have the highest drowning rates.
Because drowning is a silent killer, it is crucial that children wear a U.S Coast Guard approved life vest. Searching for a life vest to keep your child afloat can be exhausting. Please remember, wearing a life jacket does mean you are safe from drowning. It is important to try on several U.S Coast Guard approved life vest in order to find that one that best fits your child. Do not just go off weight and age.
Did you know, when a vessel is underway with children under 13 years old, they must be wearing a life jacket unless they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin? Therefore, making sure you have the proper size for the intended wearer is very important. This is not only important on a boat but whether at the beach, on the banks of a river, or at a pool, a child can easily fall in and drown.
After reading so many reviews and searching high and low with the purchase of 4 life vest, we finally found the Puddle Jumper. This life vest is the business! Sizing details are (Min. chest 19.5″, est. max chest 23.5″) and recommended weight range 30-50lbs.
My personal review on this item: Our son is 20 months old and 25 lbs. The Puddle Jumper fits him tight. I do not believe the weight is 100% accurate. You can see in the video the Puddle Jumper does not ride up under his chin like most life jackets. It has a effortless adjustable latch in rear. The Puddle Jumper has great buoyancy and helps with balance without tipping his face forward into the water. The arms seems to be a bit small but that might be part of its safety features. I recommend wearing a rash guard while wearing the Puddle Jumper. This will prevent any uncomfortable tightness on the back.
If you are looking for a flotation aid that would provide stability for a first time swimmer this is your item.
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