NEW LAW EFFECTIVE APRIL 1, 2006

 

If a child is less than 4 years of age or under 50 pounds, the personal flotation device SHALL feature ADDITIONAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS, as appropriate for an infant, toddler, or young child, so as to:

1. Hold the child securely within the personal flotation device, including a STRAP that is secured between the child's legs to fasten together the front and back of the personal flotation device.

2. Maintain the buoyancy of the child, including an INFLATABLE HEADREST OR HIGH COLLAR.

3. Ensure the ready accessibility of the child from the vessel, including a WEB HANDLE. 

 

Effective June 1, 2001

All children under the age of 7 must WEAR a United States Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device (Life Jacket - Type I, II, III or V) while underway on a recreational vessel under 21 feet in length on Maryland waters. Recreational vessel includes motorboats, sailboats, canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and any other device capable of being used for transportation on the water, when the vessel is being used for other than commercial purposes.

 

The Life Jacket must be the proper size for the child and must be in good and serviceable condition.