The United Safe Boating Institute has just published a useful poster titled Which Life Jacket for You? The poster can be viewed on-line as an Adobe PDF file. Choosing the right Personal Floatation Device (PDF) or life jacket will insure you more likely to wear it and have it on when you need it.
A PFD is most effective if it's worn, donning a PFD in water is difficult and could be impossible in the event of an injury. Further information concerning the different types of life jackets can found in the article titled Personal Floatation Devices. A brief recap on PFD types is included below.
Lifejacket Suggestions:
- Hunting - Use a Type V coat or coverall that provides comfort and floatation
- Paddling - Use a Type V vest that allows for easy movement of arms during paddling
- Fishing - Use a Type III fishing vest that has pockets for fishing gear and is comfortable to wear
- Personal Watercraft and Watersports - Use a Type III vest that is rated for high impacts
- Recreational Boating - Pick a PFD that's right for your climate and activity. You can consider an inflatable lifejacket for those that can swim and are over 16 years of age
Types of PFDs
Type I or off-shore lifejackets offer the greatest level of protection and floatation. They are designed to roll most unconscious wearers face-up in the water. Type I's are required on passenger for hire vessels like ferries. They are bulky, uncomfortable to wear and not commonly used as PDFs by recreational boaters.
Type II or near-shore buoyancy vests are a step down from the type I and intended for use in calmer waters. They will turn some unconscious wearers face-up and designed for waters where there is a chance of quick rescue.
Type III or floatation aids are the most common PFD used by boaters. The design offers the same floatation as a type II, but no face protection for an unconscious wearer. These PFDs come in the most shapes and varieties. Designs are more comfortable and easily worn.
Type IV or throwable devices are ring buoys and floating cushions. Ring buoys are an important water rescue device that should be located your docks.
Type V PFDs are devices intended for special uses. The most common example is the Mustang exposure suit worn by many of us in Alaska. Many type V devices bear a label that states that they do not qualify as PFDs under Coast Guard regulations unless worn. Many are nearly impossible to don once you are in the water.
