Life Jackets (PFDs) – The Choice Is Yours

Get and wear a Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) that fits well: make sure it is the proper type and approved for your specific usage. Actually put it on, adjust and test it in the water, so you’ll know how it will feel when needed. Do the same for all family members – especially children. Knowing what to expect in the water can prevent panic. Non – swimmers should wear a PFD on any small boat.

Never leave PFDs sealed in plastic wrapping. They must be ready to put on fast.

Whenever water conditions or weather cause concern, have everybody aboard immediately put on a PFD.

And if you fall in the water, stay with the boat.

Offshore Life Jackets (Type I): Bulky; but floats you the best; best for open, rough, or remote water. Turns most unconscious persons face-up in the water.

Near shore buoyant vests (Type II): Yoke type, less bulky than Type I and more comfortable to wear. Will hold head of many unconscious persons out of water.

Flotation Aids (Type III): Vest style; popular among recreational boaters. Only designed for calm water with good chance of fast rescue. Wearer may have to hold head back to keep face out of water, which can contribute to exhaustion and hypothermia. May not hold face of unconscious wearer out of water.

Throwable Devices (Type IV): Life rings and floating cushions.

Special Use Devices (Type V): Approved only for the activities listed on the label. Some are approved specifically for white water rafting, board sailing, etc. Also includes new Hybrid PFDs with foam flotation and an inflatable chamber. Type V Hybrid PFDs are as comfortable to wear as Type III, but when fully inflated have the flotation performance of Type II or better.