HULL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (HIN)

This number is federally required and is located on or near the boat transom’s upper starboard (right) side. Also, one is hidden by the manufacturer on the vessel for recovery purposes. HINs are 12 characters in length. They may be 17 characters on newer boats.

Personal flotation devices (PFDs, life jackets, life preservers, life vests) are the most important piece of equipment on a boat. There are five types of PFDs. Each one has advantages and disadvantages.

All boats must have a USCG approved wearable (Type I,II,III, or V) life jacket on board for each person.

In addition to wearable life jackets, boats 16 feet and over must have a throwable device (Type IV) on board. Canoes and kayaks, regardless of length, are not required to carry a throwable device.

A throwable device may not be used as a substitute for a wearable device.

Type V life jackets must be used in accordance with any requirements on the approval label.

All life jackets must be in good and serviceable condition and legibly marked showing the USCG approval number. This means that the PFD must be functional, free of tears or defects in the material, and all buckles, straps, zippers and other closures must be operable.

Wearable type life jackets must be “readily accessible,” which means that the PFDs are stowed where they can be easily reached, or that they are out in the open ready for wear. Type IV (throwables) must be “immediately available,” which means that the PFD cannot be in a protective covering and shall be within arm’s reach of the operator or passenger while the boat is operated. A PFD that is sealed in its original packaging is not readily accessible or immediately available.

Life jackets must be the appropriate size for the person intended.

WHO HAS TO WEAR A LIFE JACKET?

• All water skiers and anyone towed behind vessels, personal watercraft operators and passengers, and sailboarders (windsurfers). Infl atable life jackets are not acceptable for these activities.
• Children 12 years of age and younger onCommonwealth waters when underway on any boat 20 feet or less in length and all canoes and kayaks.
• On Pittsburgh District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lakes (only), everyone in boats under 16 feet in length and on all canoes and kayaks.

Remember, life jackets should be personalized, properly fi tted, and tested in the water. Everyone should know how to use them.