Japan implements free life jacket rentals to prevent water accidents

Local governments and private organizations in Japan are implementing free life jacket rental programs to prevent water-related accidents during the summer leisure season.

In Otsu City, companies and voluntary organizations are providing free life jacket loans to help mitigate the ongoing trend of water accidents near Lake Biwa. This initiative aims to ensure safety for those engaging in water activities.

Similarly, Minakami Town in Gunma Prefecture, located at the headwaters of the Tone River, is offering free rentals of both adult and children's life jackets. The program runs from July 1 to September 30 at the Tsukino Gymnasium. Local officials emphasized that the initiative is designed to lower the barrier to safety, encouraging people to make wearing life jackets a standard habit when playing in rivers and lakes.