Things You'll Need:
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Step 1
Use a life vest with a "Coast Guard Approved" label to ensure the vest meets all necessary standards for health and safety.
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Step 2
Check the weight recommendation on the label to make sure you are not too heavy for the life vest to keep you properly afloat.
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Step 3
Put on the life vest and adjust the fit to wrap snugly around your chest. Most newer vests have adjustable straps for custom fitting; older life vests feature simple ties. If your vest has ties, double-knot the ties to ensure the life vest remains snugly attached to your chest.
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Step 4
Attach and adjust a strap between the legs of children wearing life vests; this is an important DNR recommendation to help ensure that a bulky vest does not accidentally slip off a smaller child.
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Step 5
Move your arms back and forth to ensure the life vest allows for full range of motion. If the vest restricts movements, opt for a different vest. Never make alterations to a life vest to increase wearable comfort; this can lead to decreased effectiveness. When wearing a properly fastened vest, you greatly increase your odds of surviving a water accident.
