November 1 through April 30 Mission: To protect, conserve, and enhance the Commonwealth’s aquatic resources and provide fishing and boating opportunities

National Boating Deaths

National Statistics

PA – 3.7 fatalities per 100,000 registered boats

Pennsylvania Boating Deaths 10 years 746 accidents; 125 total fatalities PFDs not worn in 80% of fatalities Nov 1-Apr 30 incidents 8% of total accidents 29% of total fatalities 82% in unpowered boats & motorboats <16 ft. High-risk segment

Pennsylvania Statistics

Cold water shock Water temp < 70 o F Involuntary gasp (aspiration of water) Hyperventilation Breathlessness Reduced ability to control breathing & swimming Probable factor in 5 of 7 fatalities in 2010

Life Jacket Advantages Buoyancy Head above water Insulation Extends rescue time

Connecticut Oct 1-May 31 All unpowered boats Maine Jan 1-Jun 1 All canoes/kayaks Saco River only Maryland Nov 15-May 15 Upper Potomac River only Massachusetts Sept 15-May 15 All canoes/kayaks New York Nov 1-May 1 All boats < 21 ft. West Virginia Nov 15-May 15 Shenandoah River only Pennsylvania Nov 1-Apr 30 Motorboats < 16 ft All canoes/kayaks

Title 58, Pennsylvania Code, Section 97.1 * * * (i) Beginning November 1 until midnight April 30 of the following year, a person shall wear a Coast Guard approved Type I, II, III or V PFD while underway or at anchor on boats less than 16 feet in length or any canoe or kayak. Effective November 1, 2012

Life Jacket Options for Hunters* *Consider pros, cons and specific restrictions before use.

Life Jacket Options for Hunters*