PHOENIX — Arizonans can trade in their old, damaged, or ill-fitting life jackets for brand-new ones at a series of statewide exchange events hosted by the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) starting in May.
The Life Jacket Exchange Program is part of AZGFD’s annual push to improve water safety across Arizona’s lakes and rivers ahead of the busy summer boating season.
When and where are the exchanges happening?
Life jacket swap events will take place at popular recreation sites including:
May 15–16: Rotary Park, Bullhead City, 9–11 a.m.
May 17:
London Bridge Beach, Lake Havasu City, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
La Paz County Sheriff’s Boating Safety Building, Parker, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Fishers Landing, Martinez Lake, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
10 Lane Ramp, Lake Pleasant, 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
Saguaro Lake, 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
Canyon Lake, 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
Tempe Town Lake, 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
May 24: Patagonia Lake, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Exchanges are first-come, first-served while supplies last. Worn or damaged life jackets can be traded in for new ones, though horse collar and offshore-style jackets will not be accepted.
Why inspect your life jacket?
AZGFD encourages all boaters to inspect their life jackets before heading out on the water. Look for:
Rips or tears
Broken straps or buckles
Displaced flotation
Signs of wear from sun, water, or heat
“Life jackets save lives,” said Josh Hoffman, AZGFD’s boating safety education coordinator. “These events ensure boaters have jackets that fit correctly and are still effective in emergencies.”
Know the law:
Arizona law requires all passengers 12 and under to wear a life jacket on board.
All passengers must have a properly fitting, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket available.
For more info on safe boating and to register for free safety courses, visit azgfd.gov/boating.
