The Sutter County Sheriff's Office encourages all families to use the loaner stations. Photo courtesy of Sutter County Children & Families Commission

SUTTER COUNTY, CA - The Sutter County Children & Families Commission, in collaboration with the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office, is pleased to announce the official opening of four life jacket loaner stations for the 2025 summer season.

Stations are now stocked and available from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend.

These stations offer free access to life jackets for families with young children and are located at key recreational water access points throughout the county at Verona Marina, Tisdale Boat Launch, Live Oak Boat Launch and Feather River Parkway.

Each site includes 10 life jackets, five infant (up to 30 pounds) and five toddler (30 to 50 pounds) sizes, specifically for children under the age of 5. Families are welcome to borrow jackets for day use and are kindly asked to return them after use to ensure availability for others. The program is based on the honor system and community participation helps sustain the stations throughout the summer. 

“We want to make it easy for families to enjoy our beautiful waterways safely,” said Dr. Michele E. Blake, executive director of the Sutter County Children & Families Commission. “Drowning remains one of the leading causes of death for children under five and properly fitted life jackets can significantly reduce that risk. Even if a child is just wading or playing near the water’s edge, it’s important that they wear a life jacket.”

According to the World Health Organization, drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional death worldwide, with the highest rates among children ages 1 to 4, followed by those ages 5 to 9. By making life-saving gear available where it’s needed most, this program aims to reduce those risks and promote water safety awareness throughout the region.

The jackets are made available through a partnership with the Sea Tow Foundation, a national nonprofit dedicated to water safety.

Sutter County Children & Families Commission and the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office encourage all families to use the loaner stations, ensure a proper fit for their children, and enjoy a safe and fun summer season.

For more water safety tips or to learn more about Sutter County Children & Families Commission programs supporting children 0 to 5, visit www.sutterkids.org.