Low life jacket use among adult recreational boaters: A qualitative study of risk perception and behavior factors

Abstract

Background Life jackets may prevent one in two drowning deaths, however, 85% of recreational boating-related drowning victims in the United States in 2012 did not wear a life jacket. This study explored behavioral factors and strategies to encourage consistent life jacket use among adult recreational boaters. Methods We conducted a qualitative study among boat owners who boat regularly, and explored factors associated with life jacket use by adults and child or adolescent passengers. Sixteen boaters participated in four focus groups. Results Most boaters reported inconsistent use of life jackets, using them only when conditions were poor. Each described episodes of unpredictable boating risk which occurred despite favorable conditions. Most required younger child passengers to wear a life jacket, but reported resistance among older children. Barriers to consistent life jacket use included discomfort and the belief that life jacket use indicated inexperience or poor swimming ability. Participants stated that laws requiring life jacket use would change behavior especially for children. The only demonstrated behavior change among group members was associated with use of inflatable life jacket devices. Conclusions Boating risk is inherently unpredictable; therefore interventions should focus on strategies for increasing consistent use of life jackets. Passage and enforcement of life jacket legislation for older children and adults is likely a promising approach for behavior change. Designing more comfortable, better-fitting, more appealing life jackets will be paramount to encouraging consistent use.

Barriers to life jacket use among adult recreational boaters

“…Our results are consistent with findings of some qualitative studies 20–22 and anecdotal information about life jacket use and behaviors: no/low life jacket use was associated with being on a larger boat, perception of life jackets as uncomfortable, and self-perceived ability as a capable swimmer. No/low life jacket use was associated with warmer weather.…”

Use of life jackets and other types of flotation for in-water recreation in designated swim areas in Washington State

“…Very high wear rates and decreased fatal drownings were achieved with mandated wear for boaters, open water swimmers and waders in Army Corps of Engineer waters and in King County rivers during a season of high water flow 13 14. Educational messaging would need to counter the perception that life jackets are not needed by those who know how to swim15 or that life jackets are only needed for boating 16…”

A case–control study of boat-related injuries and fatalities in Washington State

“…In 2012, the US Coast Guard reported that alcohol use was the leading contributing factor in fatal boating incidents, contributing to 16% of the deaths 3. Unlike alcohol use among drivers of motor vehicles, surveyed boaters report that use of alcohol among boaters is a commonly accepted practice 19. However, the estimates of alcohol as a risk factor highlight the associated danger, even if it is not being consumed by the victim, but is consumed by other passengers on the boat 8.…”