The Bullhead City Fire Department is once again collaborating with the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD), hosting the annual life jacket exchange program. The event will take place on Saturday, May 20, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. limited sizes are available until supplies run out. (Life jackets are for individual use only; please, no watercraft business returns) The event will be held at BCFD fire station #2 (1230 Hwy. 95)

Before you head out on the water, boaters need to ensure that their life jackets are in good condition and the right size and fit for passengers. When inspecting life jackets, look for rips or tears, missing straps or broken fasteners to ensure the flotation has not shifted. Based on AZGFD’s boating education program observations, life jackets should be inspected each boating season due to the environment’s impact on their materials.

During the exchange, old, worn out, and less-effective Type III life jackets can be swapped for a new one. Please note that Type I and Type II life jackets will not be accepted.

State law requires all children 12 years old and younger to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket anytime while onboard; each passenger must have a properly fitting, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket readily accessible.

For more information about boating in Arizona or to sign up for a free safety course, visit www.azgfd.gov/boating or www.cgaux.org (United States Coast Guard Auxiliary) for their upcoming Boat America Course which will take place on Saturday, May 20^th  at the Sudden Link Center located in  Bullhead City.