When a DNR officer or county sheriff’s deputy checks a boat and finds a child under 10 wearing a US Coast Guard-approved personal floatation device (PFD), the youngster is awarded a “PFD Panda” certificate redeemable for a sweet treat at Dairy Queen. As per a 2005 law, children under 10 are required to wear life jackets in boats at all times except in specific circumstances, including being below decks on a cruiser, on a boat with a licensed captain, or on an anchored boat used as a swimming platform. But if the child is wearing an unapproved device, or if the boat fails to meet overall safety equipment requirements, the adults on board can get hit with fines of over $100 for each violation.

“I regularly see three problems,” said Milaca-based DNR Conservation Officer David Schottenbauer. “Folks take the boat out and forget the life jackets. Or they are unaware they need a throwable PFD, like a boater’s cushion, for boats 16 feet and longer. Also, boaters incorrectly assume that a boat cushion counts as a primary flotation device.”

Stay safe and avoid penalties by making sure your boating equipment meets or exceeds DNR safety regulations. Some requirements vary for canoes and kayaks. Download the “Minnesota Boating Guide” from www.mndnr.gov.