Glossary
Coast Guard approved
A life jacket or throwable device approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, shown on its label with weight range and intended use.
Coast Guard approved means a life jacket or throwable flotation device has been approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. Only approved devices count toward the federal rule that a recreational boat must carry a wearable, properly sized life jacket in good condition for each person on board (U.S. Coast Guard (opens in a new tab)).
How to tell: approved devices carry a label that says so, along with the user weight range and the activities the device is designed for. The AAP (opens in a new tab) says to use only life jackets and life preservers approved by the Coast Guard, and that child approvals are based on weight, so check the user weight on the label.
Why it matters for kids' swim gear: some products sold for swimming look like life jackets but are not approved. The AAP says puddle-jumper-style vests may be safe if the label states Coast Guard approval, while blow-up water wings, toys, rafts and air mattresses should never be used as life jackets. Approval also isn't everything: a jacket must fit, and must match your activity. See life jacket labels explained and water wings, floaties and swim vests.
What you can do today: read the label inside every life jacket you own and check the weight range against the person who wears it.