CFR > Title 46 - Shipping > CHAPTER I—COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY > SUBCHAPTER T—SMALL PASSENGER VESSELS (UNDER 100 GROSS TONS) (parts 175 to 186) > PART 185—OPERATIONS > SUBPART E—Preparations for Emergencies (§185.502 to §185.530) > 185.508—Wearing of life jackets.

185.508—Wearing of life jackets.

(a) The master of a vessel shall require passengers to don life jackets when possible hazardous conditions exist, including, but not limited to:
(1) When transiting hazardous bars and inlets;
(2) During severe weather;
(3) In event of flooding, fire, or other events that may possibly call for evacuation; and
(4) When the vessel is being towed, except a non-self-propelled vessel under normal operating conditions.
(b) The master or crew shall assist each passenger in obtaining a life jacket and donning it, as necessary.