What age children must wear a USCGÐapproved personal flotation device while underway in an open vessel on federally controlled waters?

In the United States, children under the age of 13 are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) while underway in an open vessel on federally controlled waters. This requirement applies unless they are in an enclosed area of the vessel. It's important for parents and guardians to ensure that all children are properly equipped with a suitable PFD for safety while boating.