Children Should Wear Life Jackets on Boats - It's the Law

The U.S. Coast Guard's Boating Safety Division reminds all parents that their children should wear life jackets at all times while on board. Just like they wear bike helmets, they should put on their life jackets.

The coast guard says parents mistakenly believe they can dive into the water and rescue a child if an emergency occurs. This misconception is dangerous because:

• You may not notice when the kid falls overboard
• The child may not surface immediately
• It can be difficult to spot a child in the water, especially if the boat is moving.

The best way to make kids wear their life jackets, they say, is by example. (Hint, hint!)

In Connecticut, effective Oct. 1, 2008, all children ages 12 or less are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while a vessel is underway, unless the child is below deck or in an enclosed cabin.

Let's keep the young 'uns safe on the water!

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning -- A Hidden Danger for Boaters

Carbon monoxide poisoning doesn't only occur in cars -- it also happens on boats. Generators, propane heaters and boat engines all throw off the gas. See the video below from CBS News and find out more about this danger.