PFD's

Here’s a story from the P-I

If people want to go swimming, floating or boating on rivers in unincorporated King County they may need to wear life vests.

That’s because Executive Dow Constantine has called for a summer-long life vest requirement.

“This proposal will help save lives,” Constantine said in a statement. “River flows are unusually swift and cold this year due to a heavy mountain snowpack that is melting into King County rivers. Rivers are inherently dangerous places to play, but this year is bringing additional risks. The wearing of life jackets is as essential for swimmers and boaters as helmets for cyclists and seat belts for drivers.”

County Councilmember Larry Phillips agrees and has sponsored an ordinance that will be introduced Monday. If approved, it would be be effective until Halloween. People who don’t wear vests would face fines from the sheriff’s department of up to $86. The sheriff’s department supports the life vest ordinance.

Authorities say an average of more than 20 die in drowning accidents every year in King County.

Read more: http://www.seattlepi.com/local/article/Wear-a-life-vest-in-King-Co-or-face-an-86-fine-1407529.php#ixzz1OEc9ZuqS