Your Guide to the BoatUS Life Jacket Loaner Program

There’s nothing better than a sunny day on the water with your family. The laughter, the splashing, the shared adventures—these are the moments we cherish. But as every boat owner knows, a fun day is a safe day, and that starts with the most essential piece of gear for your little ones: a properly fitting life jacket.

What happens when a guest kiddo comes along for a last-minute trip? Or what if you realize your child had a growth spurt and their old life jacket is now too snug? The BoatUS Foundation has an incredible solution that every boating family should know about.

The Problem: The Missing Life Jacket

It’s a scenario that happens all the time. You’re ready to head out, but you’re one life jacket short. Or maybe you have one, but it’s not the right size. An ill-fitting life jacket can be just as dangerous as no life jacket at all, as it can slip off or fail to keep a child’s head above water.

The Perfect Solution: The BoatUS Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Program

This is where the BoatUS Foundation steps in to save the day. For years, they’ve been running a nationwide program that lets you borrow a child’s life jacket for free.

That’s right—you can borrow a USCG-approved, properly-sized life jacket for a day or even a full weekend at no cost. This amazing program is designed to ensure that no child has to go without a life jacket for any reason.

How Does It Work? It’s Simple!

Getting a loaner life jacket is incredibly easy. The program is designed for convenience so you can get on the water safely and quickly.

1. Find a Loaner Site Near You: The BoatUS Foundation has over 575 loaner locations across the country, often at marinas, boat clubs, and waterfront businesses. You can find the one closest to your home or your boating destination on their interactive map.
   • https://boatus.org/life-jacket-loaner/map
2. Check Out a Jacket: Simply visit the site, provide some basic information, and choose the right size jacket for your child.
3. Enjoy Your Day: Have fun on the water with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your kids are safe and protected.
4. Return It: When you’re done, simply return the life jacket to the same location so another family can use it.

Why a Proper Fit Matters

The BoatUS Foundation’s program emphasizes the importance of a correctly sized life jacket. A jacket that’s too large can slide up over a child’s chin and ears, while one that’s too small won’t provide buoyancy. The loaner program ensures you can always find the perfect fit for your child’s current weight and height.

Plan Ahead for a Safe Season

Before your next trip, take a moment to check your life jacket supply and find a loaner location near you. It’s a simple step that can make all the difference.

Have a wonderful time on the water!