A life jacket can cost between $10 and $40 but they are worth much more if they can save a life.
That's why the Oho Department of Natural Resources is urging parents who are heading to the water this Fourth of July weekend to make sure your child wears one.
The body of a 7-year-old was found Monday after falling from a boat at Salt Fork State Park on Sunday.
According to officials, Afton Taylor of North Canton was boating with his family when he fell.
Officers say if you are purchasing a life jacket, make sure you check the size and make sure and measure your child's chest to ensure a proper fit. Wearing a vest too small may not ensure the child will stay afloat.
Boating accident statistics show that drowning is the single biggest cause of death in recreational boating accidents. More than 70% of boating deaths happened because of unexpected entry into the water, which means the victim had no time to grab a life jacket.
With temperatures near 90, the Jenkins family of Columbus decided it would be a great day to take the boat out on the water.
Even though the law says their kids are old enough and don't need to wear a life jacket, their dad drew the line.
"They are going to wear life jackets regardless of what the law says," says Dan Jenkins.
In Ohio, children under the age of 10 in a boat less than 18 feet must wear a life jacket.
State law requires people who jet ski or are being pulled from a boat must wear a life jacket regardless of age.
Fines for not wearing a life jacket can range from $125 to $250 depending on the county where you live.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources says even if parents are taking their young kids swimming it's not a bad idea to have your children in a life vest.
"It's easy to lose sight of your children because they wander off to make sure you're always keeping track of your child," Lt. Dawn Roberts said.
Things to know about life jackets:
- Certain life jackets are designed to keep your head above water and help you remain in a position which permits proper breathing.
- To meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements, a boat must have a U.S. Coast Guard Approved life jacket for each person aboard. Boats 16 feet and over must have at least one Type IV throwable device as well.
- All states have regulations regarding life jacket wear by children.
- Adult-sized life jackets will not work for children. Special life jackets are available. To work correctly, a life jacket must be worn, fit snugly, and not allow the child's chin or ears to slip through.
- Life jackets should be tested for wear and buoyancy at least once each year. Waterlogged, faded, or leaky jackets should be discarded.
- Life jackets must be properly stowed.
- A life jacket especially a snug-fitting flotation coat or deck-suit style can help you survive in cold water.