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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-pfd-not-in-bags

Which way of storing wearable life jackets fails the 'readily accessible' rule?

Sealed in plastic bags in a locked compartment.

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  1. Worn by everyone aboard
  2. Sealed in plastic bags, locked away ✔
  3. Out in the open near the seats

Why: Wearable life jackets must be readily accessible, so you can put them on fast in an emergency. Bags, locked or closed lockers, and gear piled on top all slow you down.

Huh, didn't know that: You should be able to put one on in a reasonable amount of time in an emergency.

The dad joke
Why did the life jacket hate the locker? It wanted to be on hand.
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References

Answer: Sealed in plastic bags, locked away. Wearable life jackets must be readily accessible, so you can put them on fast in an emergency. Bags, locked or closed lockers, and gear piled on top all slow you down.

  1. USCG, A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats (Nov 2023) www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/Boaters-Guide-to-Federal-Requirements-for-Receational-Boats-20231108.pdf
    They should not be stowed in plastic bags, in locked or closed compartments, or have other gear stowed on top of them.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. USCG, A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats (Nov 2023) www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/Boaters-Guide-to-Federal-Requirements-for-Receational-Boats-20231108.pdf
    Wearable PFDs must be readily accessible.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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