🔍 Key Concepts

• Review 46 CFR Subchapter T requirements for small passenger vessels and life-saving equipment • Focus on the specific rule for child (pediatric) lifejackets versus total persons on board • Think about why the Coast Guard requires a certain minimum percentage rather than a fixed number

💭 Think About

• Which percentage would reasonably cover situations where a significant portion of passengers could be children, without requiring child lifejackets for everyone? • Compare the options: which one seems too low to be practical, and which seem higher than what regulations typically mandate as a minimum? • Consider how safety margins are usually built into life-saving equipment requirements—does the regulation likely pick a small token percentage or a more substantial one?

✅ Before You Answer

• Confirm in 46 CFR Part 180 (or current equivalent for lifesaving equipment on small passenger vessels) where children’s PFD requirements are listed • Check that the percentage applies to total persons allowed (passenger + crew) on board, not just expected children • Verify that the rule specifies “at least” a certain percent of the total number of persons and not a fixed number per vessel