The U. S. Coast Guard requires recreational vessels to have a wearable life jacket for each person aboard. These life jackets must be:
- U. S. Coast Guard approved
- The proper size for the intended wearer
- In good and serviceable condition
- Properly stowed (readily accessible)
All persons 12 years of age and under in an open boat or on an open deck of a vessel being used for recreational purposes on the waters of Tennessee shall wear a United States Coast guard approved wearable personal flotation device while
such vessel is underway.
Note: Boating out-of-state? There may be a different age requirement. Check with that state’s boating authorities before heading out on the water.
The U.S. Coast Guard has more life jacket information here.