If a child under 13 is on a boat that is less than 26 feet long, what safety equipment must they wear?

When a child under 13 is on a boat that is less than 26 feet long, they are required to wear a life jacket, which is specifically designed to provide buoyancy and keep them safe in case of an emergency or an accidental fall overboard. The law mandates that all children under this age must be properly equipped with a US Coast Guard-approved life jacket while on such vessels. This safety measure is crucial because young children may not have the swimming skills or awareness to handle unexpected situations on the water. Life jackets are essential for personal safety, as they significantly increase a child's chances of survival should they enter the water unexpectedly.

Other options do not pertain to boating safety regulations for children. Helmets may be necessary for certain water sports but are not mandated for general boating. Seatbelts are used in vehicles and do not apply to boating scenarios, while goggles may be relevant for specific activities like water skiing or swimming but are not a safety requirement for boat passengers.