Kids "otter" wear a life jacket to score a free T-shirt on the Lake this summer

Ameren Missouri promotion provides free t-shirts to kids caught wearing a life jacket

Throughout the summer, kids wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket on the Lake of the Ozarks could receive a free t-shirt, courtesy of Ameren Missouri. Featuring an otter floating on its back while properly wearing a life jacket, the shirt is an adorable but timely reminder of the importance of water safety. 

Troopers with the Missouri State Highway Patrol's (MSHP) water patrol division will hand out the free shirts during routine safety checks and courtesy stops. The giveaway, which runs all summer long, supports Ameren Missouri's focus on shoreline safety.

Boaters of all ages should wear life jackets for any water activities, regardless of their swimming abilities.

“Many people don’t realize that Ameren Missouri manages 1,150 miles of Lake of the Ozarks shoreline as part of the operation of Bagnell Dam and the Osage Energy Center,” said Bryan Vance, manager of Shoreline Management at Ameren Missouri. “We want to make sure every lake visitor can enjoy the water as safely as possible. Our annual summer T-shirt giveaway is a fun way to remind everyone that wearing a life jacket is one of the simplest and best ways to prevent accidental drowning.”

The U.S. Coast Guard reports that drowning caused 76% of the 556 fatal boating accidents in 2024. In 87% of those cases, the victim wasn’t wearing a life jacket.

“Missouri law requires children under seven to wear a life jacket while boating, and we encourage all boaters, regardless of age, to do the same,” said Captain Mike Petlansky, MSHP water patrol division director.

In addition to wearing life jackets while boating and in the water, the Coast Guard also recommends that children wear them on docks and around the shoreline. To check the fit, tighten all straps and lift the jacket from the shoulders. If it hits the top of the child’s ears, it’s too big. Remember that life jackets should never replace adult supervision.

For more information on Ameren Missouri's presence at Lake of the Ozarks, including water levels, information on dock permits and more, please visit AmerenMissouri.com/Lake.