To help children stay safe around water this summer, the City of Irvine is launching the Floatie Exchange Program, an initiative offering free U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets in exchange for non-approved personal flotation devices for children ages 6 and younger. 
 
The Floatie Exchange Program supports the goals of California Assembly Bill 2146, which restricts the production, sale, and distribution of personal flotation devices that lack U.S. Coast Guard approval. By launching this initiative, the City seeks to phase out unapproved flotation gear and promote supervision and water safety practices for young children. 

Join the City of Irvine Saturday, May 17, from 8 a.m. to noon at the William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center for the official start of the Floatie Exchange Program. Families can bring in non–Coast Guard-approved flotation devices and exchange them — at no cost — for a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. To receive a free life jacket, parents or guardians will be asked to watch a short safety video and complete a waiver following a professional fitting by trained staff or volunteers.  

Life jackets will be available, while supplies last, at the Woollett Aquatics Center and at several City-sponsored events throughout the year, including: 

• Studio Arts Festival: June 7, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Heritage Community Park 
• Irvine Nights – Swift Nation Concert: Saturday, June 7, 6–10 p.m., Great Park Live 
• Super Swim Lesson: June 27, 5:30 p.m., William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center 
• Mid-Autumn Festival: September 26, 5–9:30 p.m., Great Park 
• Irvine Global Village Festival: October 11, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Great Park 

For more information, please visit cityofirvine.org/aquatics or call 949-724-6717.