CLEARLAKE, Calif. – The United States Coast Guard (USCG) Auxiliary, Flotilla 88 of Lake County has been awarded a $1,500 grant from Wal-Mart for the purchase of life jackets to be given away to children on Saturday May 18.  

This is the ninth year that the Flotilla has held this life jacket giveaway project and which Wal-Mart has contributed support to this project.  

The free life jacket giveaway will be held at Redbud Park Marina located in Clearlake starting at 10 a.m.

All children must be accompanied by their parent or guardian who will be requested to complete a form indicating their full name, child’s name, phone number or e-mail.  

The child will be weighed, fitted for the proper size and instructed in the correct way to wear the jacket and how to take care of it.  

The life jackets are free and supplies are limited.

Also, Flotilla 88 vessel examiners will be holding free vessel exams for boat owners at the marina on May 18. The vessels can be in the water or on a trailer.  

The owners will receive important information regarding safety on the water. Boat owners whose vessel passes the exam may apply for discount on their boat insurance.
      
Dorothy De Lope if Flotilla 88's public affairs officer.