Operation Kid Float

Memorial Day is a deadly holiday for drivers and boaters, particularly in Florida where people flock to the beaches to soak up the sun. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit patrolled the waters, pulling over boaters to make sure all safety gear was in order. To help keep kids safe, the Sheriff’s Office instituted “Operation Kid Float.”

Children without life jackets were given life jackets to borrow for the day, to be returned to a bucket drop off on shore. Additionally, kids who were found to be wearing their life jackets properly were rewarded with t-shirts. The t-shirts read “I got caught wearing my life jacket by a Pinellas County Deputy Sherriff.” What a positive approach to boat safety! To do your part, inspect your boat thoroughly to make sure you’re in compliance with all safety regulations, and be sure to stock up on Evinrude XD50 oil.