What is the legal requirement for children under 10 while boating in Maine?

In Maine, children under the age of 10 are legally required to wear a USCG-approved life jacket at all times while on a moving vessel. This regulation is crucial for ensuring the safety of young boaters, as children are at a higher risk of drowning in the event of an accident or unexpected incident on the water. The life jacket serves as a critical safety device that increases their chances of survival should they fall overboard.

The requirement emphasizes the importance of personal flotation devices (PFDs) and aligns with broader boating safety regulations aimed at protecting vulnerable populations. This law applies specifically when the vessel is in motion, reflecting the heightened risk during such times. Therefore, wearing a properly fitted life jacket is not just advisable but mandatory for the safety of young passengers on boats.