HARRISBURG, Pa. (March 9) – With warmer temperatures expected to arrive this week across portions of the Commonwealth, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) reminds anglers and boaters that the annual cold weather life jacket requirement remains in effect through April 30.
“While many of us are looking forward to finally putting this year’s frigid winter weather behind us, don’t be fooled by a few days of sunny skies and balmy air temperatures that tend to be temporary this time of year,” said Ryan Walt, PFBC Boating and Watercraft Safety Manager. “Even though you may be anxious to get outside to enjoy your 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.