Life Jacket Loaner Program

Life Jacket Loaner Program

The McLane Black Lake Fire Department has partnered with the Washington State Parks Boating Program to help boating families stay safe through the Life Jacket Loaner Program. Life jackets are available at Black Lake Boat Launch and Summit Lake, making it easy for boaters to borrow properly fitting life jackets for infants, children, youth, and adults—free of charge. Simply return the jackets to the same location when you're done.

You can view a detailed list of all Washington State Life Jacket Loaner Stations.

Why Life Jackets Matter

Boating and paddling are enjoyable activities, but they come with risks—especially in Washington, where waterways remain cold year-round. Cold-water shock is a leading cause of drowning, and it can affect anyone, regardless of age or swimming ability.

Many people assume that having life jackets on board is enough. However, emergencies happen quickly, often leaving no time to put one on. That’s why wearing a life jacket at all times is essential.

Two kids kayaking on a sunny day, wearing life jackets and sunglasses.

Life jackets save lives—wear it!
Studies consistently show that wearing a life jacket significantly increases your chances of survival in a boating accident.

Washington State Life Jacket Laws

  • All vessels (including canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards) must carry one properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket (Personal Flotation Device or PFD) per person on board.
  • Children 12 and under must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times when underway in vessels under 19 feet, unless inside a fully enclosed cabin.
  • Personal watercraft (PWC) riders and anyone being towed behind a boat must wear a life jacket designed for that activity.
  • Throwable flotation devices are required on vessels 16 feet or longer (excluding canoes and kayaks).

How to Properly Fit a Life Jacket

Follow these steps to ensure a safe and comfortable fit:

  1. Check the label
    • Confirm the life jacket is U.S. Coast Guard-approved.
    • Ensure the wearer’s weight and chest size match the label’s specifications.
  2. Inspect for damage
    • Look for rips, missing buckles, or broken straps.
  3. Put it on and secure it
    • Buckle all straps and zip all zippers.
    • Don’t forget the crotch strap, if present.
  4. Test the fit
    • Have the wearer raise their arms overhead.
    • Gently lift the jacket by the arm openings.
    • If it rides up over the ears, it’s too big.
    • If straps or zippers won’t close, it’s too small.