Do I need to wear a Life Jacket when I am Kayaking or Stand up Paddleboarding?
A stand up paddle board is not a vessel and so you are not required to wear a lifejacket.
But with Kayaking or Canoeing on 1 November 2010, new compulsory lifejacket wearing requirements came into effect. Lifejackets are required to be worn in the following circumstances and this covers kayaks and canoes:
FOR CHILDREN LESS THAN 12 YEARS OF AGE
- Are required to wear an appropriate lifejacket at all times. This can be a Type 1, Type 2 or Type 3.
FOR THOSE 12 YEARS OR OVER
- Are required to wear a lifejacket on enclosed waters more than 100m from shore.
- On open(coastal) waters, including when crossing a coastal bar or on white water at all times.
- This can be a Type 1, Type 2 or Type 3.
What is a Life Jacket Type 1, 2 or 3:
Type 1– Designed for the highest level of safety and for use on open waters, Level 100+ (also known as Type 1) lifejackets provide extra buoyancy, keeping the wearer’s head above the water, even if unconscious.
Type 2 – A Level 50 (also known as Type 2) lifejacket is designed to keep a conscious person afloat, it’s suitable for boating on sheltered waters, where help is generally close at hand. These lifejackets are considered to be more comfortable than a Type 1 lifejacket and its bright colours make search and rescue easier.
Type 3 The Level 50S (also known as Type 3) range has the same buoyancy characteristics of Type 2 lifejackets, but without the highly visible colours. These lifejackets provide great comfort and style. Best used where help or the shoreline is nearby.
DO NOT compromise your safety by buying an uncertified lifejacket. We only sell Ultra brand PFDs products which are Australian Standard Approved and designed to keep you safe and comfortable.
For more information about Life Jacket regulations you can visit www.lifejacketwearit.com.au or visit our section https://www.weekendwarrior.net.au/life-jackets/
