The Life Jacket

A life jacket is a special vest that keeps you safe in the water. It is filled with material that floats. When you wear it, it keeps your head above water even if you cannot swim.

The History of Life Jackets

People have used floating devices for a very long time. Ancient sailors tied blocks of wood or cork to themselves. The first modern life jacket was invented in the 1850s by Captain Ward.

Life jackets became required on ships after the Titanic sank in 1912. That terrible disaster showed how important it was to have enough life jackets for everyone on board.

How Life Jackets Work

Life jackets are made with materials that are lighter than water. Most have thick foam padding that keeps you afloat. Some life jackets inflate with air when they hit the water.

Life jackets come in many sizes for adults and children. You should always wear one when boating, kayaking, or doing any water activity. A life jacket must fit snugly so it does not slip off in the water.

Fun Facts

• Life jackets are often bright orange or yellow so rescuers can spot you easily.
• Some life jackets have a whistle attached so you can call for help.
• It is the law to have a life jacket for every person on a boat in the United States.

Did You Know?

After the Titanic disaster in 1912, new rules were made requiring ships to carry enough life jackets for every single passenger.