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N.C. updates its PFD regulations

By Tony Robinson | Sportsman

Published: August 21, 2008

North Carolina has finally decided that if you're in a craft that floats, you need a lifesaving device.

Since the state first began establishing boating safety laws, only boats with motors were required to have lifesaving devices.

For years, the state's wildlife enforcement officers have had to enforce boating safety laws that were sorely outdated and ill prepared.

Recent changes to the state's boating regulations now refer to vessels rather than motorboats when it comes to lifesaving device requirements. A vessel means every description of watercraft or structure, other than a seaplane on the water, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation or habitation on the water.

According to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, wildlife officers will work to inform paddlers about this update to state regulations and begin enforcement on waterways.

All vessels are now required to have at least one personal flotation device of a type I, II or III, for each person onboard if the vessel is smaller than 16 feet in length. In addition to this requirement, all vessels 16 feet or longer must also carry a throwable flotation device of a type IV PFD. The regulation update brings state law in line with existing federal regulations.

Boaters are also reminded that any child younger than 13 is required to wear an appropriate life vest whenever they are on a recreational vessel that is under way. The life vest must be of proper size and have a U.S. Coast Guard approved label.