Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Program

 

Boating safety is very important, it can be the difference between life and death.  In an effort to promote safe boating the Sea Tow Foundation is placing life jacket stands at local marinas and possibly state boat ramps soon.   These stations are for boaters to borrow a life jacket if they need one for their children or infant.  After you use the jacket just bring it back and hang it back up but clean it first if necessary  This service is free of charge, there isn’t a deposit.  Look for these stands if you need a better life jacket for any children on board.  These fit much more comfortable than the over sized adult ones everyone tries to get by with and they will actually work if your child falls overboard.  Children have to wear life jackets, these are much more comfortable and they will not complain all day they are wearing one, well at least in a perfect world.  Some of the kids at the presentation were wearing these jackets the entire time we were there.  They weren’t bothered by them at all.  This program is not just for boaters there are numerous water sports that children should have the proper personal flotation devices.  From water skiing to Stand Up Paddle Boarding.

Representatives Stephen Smyk and Harvey Kenton were at the presentation at Leisure Point Marina in Long Neck, Delaware.  Sargent Troy Trimmer and Seasonal William Adkins From DNREC Fish & Wildlife Enforcement were also there.  This is the first location in Delaware to have one of these stands.  Everyone thought this was a really good idea.  Hopefully more of these will be placed in high traffic boating areas throughout the state.  Boat ramps will be tricky due to people not returning them.  Henry Fullmer said Sea Tow would rather these folks have a lifejacket for their child that works, than not.  If you are interested in having one at your marina contact the  Sea Tow Foundation.

Henry Fullmer … “The life Jacket program is supported by many government and state agencies across the country and today we are thankful the program has The support here in Delaware of two House representatives Steve Smyk and Harvey Kenton along with Sergeant Troy trimmer from the division of Fish and wildlife.
The lifejacket loaner program was founded by Sea Tow services international founder the late Captain Joe Frohnhofer with the goal to help reduce drowning victims.
The life jacket loaner program offers boaters and paddle sports enthusiasts a properly fit life jacket to borrow and then return when they are done at no cost.

With over 59,000 boats and water craft registered in the state of Delaware we only had 25 boating related accidents in 2015 and that’s well below the national average that can only be contributed to the safety checks performed by DNREC and the USCG.
Today the program has hosted over 350 loaner stand locations at boat ramps marinas and parks throughout the country. Since 2008 the foundation has made over 35,000 like jackets available to the public and with volunteers like Michelle at leisure point general store and deli we will continue to help make the waters a little safer.”

 

ABOUT SEA TOW FOUNDATION
Sea Tow Foundation was established by Sea Tow Services International Founder Captain Joe Frohnhoefer as a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization to promote safe boating practices that directly reduce accidents, fatalities and property damage related to recreational boating.

People All Over the United States and Territories Make Sea Tow Foundation Possible
Sea Tow Foundation promotes safe boating practices through its programs with the help of supporters and volunteers from communities all over the United States and Territories.

Funding for Sea Tow Foundation Comes from Donations, Grants, In-Kind Gifts and Services
Sea Tow Foundation programs are funded through donations, grants from The Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund administered by the U.S. Coast Guard, and in-kind gifts and services. Donations to Sea Tow Foundation are tax-deductible.

To Help Reduce Boating Under the Influence the Designated Sober Skipper Campaign Asks People to Make a Good Choice Before Leaving the Dock
On a boat, wind, vibration, noise, and the sun can intensify the effects of alcohol; and can impair balance and coordination, which are already hard to maintain on a boat (even without drinking). So if you’re the skipper, stay alert – stay sober.

The Designated Skipper Campaign is about:
• Respecting the legal drinking age.
• Being responsible for my vessel and all passengers.
• Being or designating a sober skipper.

Today The Designated Skipper Campaign is hosted in 24 States by 61 business, civic, and government agencies; and has reached some 400,000 people.

To Help Reduce Drowning o Offer Boaters and Paddle Sport Enthusiasts a Life Jacket to Borrow and Return When Done
Today Life Jacket Loaner Program volunteers host 348 life jacket loaner stands at boat ramps, marinas, and parks throughout the United States. Since 2008 more than 35,000 life jackets have been made available to people and program continues to grow year after year.

Please Help Me Keep Boating Fun and Safe and Support Sea Tow Foundation Efforts
Please be Designated a Sober Skipper and wear your Life Jacket!
For more information about Sea Tow Foundation go to their website at: www.BoatingSafety.com

Fish On!!

Rich King