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A life jacket is a personal flotation device (PFD) that comes in a variety of shapes, colors, sizes, and materials. Some life vests are made to be more rugged and last longer while others are made to protect you from cold water. No matter which life jacket you choose, be sure to get the one that is right for you, and provides the right level of safety. While it might seem like “any life jacket will do” it really won’t. You need a PFD that suits your purpose. Select a PFD based on your planned activities, and the conditions you expect to encounter. Remember, spending a little time now could save your life later. It needs to be an approved device designed for lifesaving purposes. United States Coast Guard (USCG) approval means that the PFD has passed rigorous testing. So, always look for the USCG approval number on any life jacket you buy. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s label and the “Think Safe” pamphlet that is attached to the device. Valuable information is contained within these resources. You must have at least one U.S. Coast Guard-approved, wearable PFD for each person on board your vessel, and it must be the appropriate size and designed for the right purpose. Boats 16 feet or longer (generally excluding canoes and kayaks but check your state’s regulations) must also have one throwable device (Type IV PFD). So, what kind of device do you need? The Different Types Of Life VestNot all PFDs are created equal. Like most safety clothing, they are classed in different types, provide different buoyancy for different scenarios, and come made from different materials. The most popular types of life jackets are made from either standard Standard PFDsStandard PFDs are the most common type that you’ll see. They’re often worn by boat users, kayakers, and other water sports enthusiasts. They generally look like life vests, and they’re filled with a foam material for buoyancy and flotation. This type of PFD is generally classified as a Type III life vest by the USCG.
These popular life vests are the most common because of their practicality and durability. They’re low maintenance, incredibly buoyant, versatile, and functional. Unlike inflatable PFDs, these classic life jackets have useful pockets and other practicalities. Inflatable PFDsInflatable PFDs are available in adult sizes only, are comfortable for continuous wear in hot weather and provide high flotation when inflated. They are good for adult swimmers involved in general boating activities. Because inflatable PFDs will not float without first being inflated, they are not considered appropriate for use by non-swimmers or weak swimmers, unless worn inflated. They are not for use by children younger than 16 years of age or by persons weighing less than 80 pounds.
Most inflatable life jackets use a replaceable CO2 gas cylinder as the primary means for inflating the PFD. They can also be inflated by blowing into an oral inflation tube. There are two types of inflation systems being offered on inflatable PFDs. One is called a manual inflation and requires the user to jerk on a pull-tab (lanyard) to inflate the PFD. The second is called manual-auto inflation and this type includes a back-up system designed to automatically inflate when the PFD is submerged. The manual-auto type PFD can also be inflated in the same manner as with the manual type. The CO2 gas cylinder is good for only one inflation. Inflatable flotation devices must not be worn under restrictive clothing because automatic or accidental manual inflation could restrict breathing and cause injury or death. Inflatable PFDs are not suitable for use in whitewater, with personal watercraft, or while water-skiing, tubing, kneeboarding, or other similar activities. What About Hybrid PFDs?A hybrid inflatable PFD uses a mixture of inherently buoyant material and an inflatable chamber to provide flotation. An example of a hybrid would be a design similar to a jacket or parka with the buoyant material and inflatable chamber(s) sewn between the jacket’s outer material and liner. Unfortunately, the hybrid PFD designs are hot, bulky, and expensive. These flotation devices are often used by kayakers, canoeists, stand-up paddle boarders, and other mild sports enthusiasts. They are compact and practical, comfortable to wear, but they can be quite expensive. Their dual-nature doesn’t come cheap! Getting the Correct Sizing and FitIt’s important that you invest in the right-sized life jacket if you’re heading out on the water. The wrong fit could be the difference between life and death! At the very least, the wrong size will be uncomfortable to wear and will restrict your movement—and that’s not ideal. Here’s how to find the right size for your needs. Life Jackets For AdultsWhen it comes to purchasing the correct size for a PFD or life jacket, it’s essential to remember that you’re looking for a device that fits your chest size and not your weight. Before you start your search, make sure you know your chest size. A chest measurement should be taken at your chest’s broadest point. Armed with that size, follow the manufacturer’s size guide to find the right device size for your needs. Here’s how to size an adult life jacket correctly:
Life Jackets For KidsSizing a PFD for children isn’t the same as sizing a life jacket for an adult. Rather than using a chest size to determine the best fit, child PFDs are sized by weight. A child’s weight should determine whether they use an infant PFD, child PFD, or youth PFD.
Life Jackets For DogsPet PFDs are surprisingly popular. Dog life jackets are essential if you’re taking your furry friend on a trip to sea. Even though many animals are strong and confident swimmers it’s still a safe idea to get them a life vest. It’s important to know that there aren’t any USCG-certified life vest options for animals but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t invest in one. Here are three features to look out for:
Features and SpecsBefore you blindly purchase a life jacket, you should also look out for what features and specs are included. It’s all very well buying the right type and the right size, but if it’s lacking in certain features, then it will be no good to you. For the best results, and to ensure that you’re getting the best PFD for your needs, consider the following features: Flotation: Naturally, the first thing you should look at is the floatation ability of a personal flotation device. Buoyancy is calculated by measuring the force required to keep a user’s head above water. Almost all life vests will have more than enough buoyancy to keep an adult’s head and chin out of the water (usually between 7 to 12 pounds of extra flotation) but it’s a good metric to compare one device with another. The higher the device’s flotation rating, the better it may be for your needs. Visibility: Surprisingly, not all life jackets are made using high-visibility colors. Consider looking for a bright, visible color that will be easy to spot against the kind of water in the location that you’re boating in. Bright yellow or orange is a good color to choose from. Reflective features are also worth looking out for. An eye-catching color with reflective details is ideal for this purpose. Ventilation: Wearing a life jacket can be a sweaty business. If you’re boating in hot climates, you should look out for flotation devices that feature ventilation or breathable mesh materials to help keep you cool. There’s no reason to be uncomfortable! Pockets: Non-inflatable life jackets usually come equipped with pockets of some kind. If you need storage space, consider looking at the dimensions of the pockets to see if they suit your needs. Gear attachments: Some life jackets feature a number of tabs dotted across the vest that allows users to attach additional gear. For example, some life vests have tabs that you can attach a whistle, strobe light, fishing knife, or other survival equipment to. Fishing-specific vests: Since a large percentage of boat users are anglers if you’re one of them it might be worth searching for fishing-specific PFDs. These fishing vests often feature useful additions, such as tool hangers, flip-down pocket tables, multiple pockets, and rod-holding loops. PFD ClassificationUSCG classification: There are five categories of PFDs as determined by the U.S. Coast Guard, but kayakers, canoers, and stand-up paddleboarders almost always choose one of two types: Type III or Type V. This is because these PFDs are typically the most comfortable for these activities. With that said, it can be helpful to know a bit about all types of life jackets available so you can decide which one is the best option for you: Type I: Offshore Life JacketType I life vests are tough and durable life-saving devices that are designed for the open sea, in remote and rough conditions, where rescue may be slow coming. These devices float you the best and have the ability to turn most unconscious wearers face-up in the water. Most have a high-visibility color scheme. You’re most likely to find these devices on commercial vehicles. The only disadvantage to Type I life vest options is the fact that they’re bulky. Type I Inflatables: Today, you can also buy USCG approved inflatable Type I flotation devices. Be sure to check for USCG approval if you’re choosing an inflatable device. Type II: Near-Short Buoyant VestType II PFDs are buoyant vests that are good for calm or inland conditions, or where there is a good chance of fast rescue. Good Type II devices will turn unconscious wearers face-up in the water in the event of an accident. They’re Less bulky, more comfortable than Type I but they’re not really designed for long hours in rough conditions. While good Type IIs can turn unconscious wearers face-up, many of them will not Type II Inflatables: Some brands now have approval for inflatable Type IIs. Be sure to check for USCG approval before you buy. Type III: Flotation AidThese flotation devices are good for conscious users in inland water and where there is a good chance of fast rescue. Generally, these are the most comfortable type for continuous wear. They’re designed for general boating or specific activities that are marked on the device. These PFDs are available in a wide range of styles, including life vests, flotation coats, and more. The disadvantages of these aids include the fact that wearers may have to tilt their head back to avoid being floated in a face-down position, and the fact that they’re not really designed for extended survival situations in rough waters. Type III Inflatables: These exist. They will keep many unconscious wearers face-up after inflation but must be regularly inspected and re-armed to be reliable. Inflatables are not ideal for non-swimmers, or for long hours in rough conditions. Inflatables are not for use where a high-speed impact is likely to occur. Type IV: Throwable DeviceThrowable flotation devices are very useful. They can be thrown to someone from a distance, and they’re great backup life-saving tools. However, they’re best used in partnership with regular, wearable life vest types. They do have a number of disadvantages: they can’t be used with unconscious people, and they’re not practical with non-swimmers or children. They’re also not designed to keep you safe for long periods of time in rougher waters. Type V: Special Use DeviceType V PFDs are more convenient or useful for very specific activities. These devices generally need to be worn continuously and won’t be classed as approved if it’s not being worn. This continuous wear prevents boaters from being caught without protection. This is ideal since most accidents happen suddenly and unexpectedly. There are some disadvantages. They can be less safe than other PFDs if they’re not used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Since they’re designed for specific purposes, they may not make for “universal” PFD equipment. Also, as mentioned above, some Type Vs are approved for use only when they’re worn. If marked this way, they are required to be worn to be counted as a regulation PFD. Label ExplanationsWe’ve mentioned to always read the label repeatedly throughout this article, but what do those labels say, and what do their warnings mean? Here’s a quick summary of the most commonly found terms:
What is the most important thing when selecting a PFD?Each PFD must be in good condition, be the proper size for the intended wearer, and very importantly, be readily accessible! Readily accessible means you must be able to put the PFD on in a reasonable amount of time in an emergency (vessel sinking, on fire, etc.).
What do you look for in a PFD?Look for these safety features:. a large collar for head support.. waist ties or elastic gathers in front and back.. a safety strap that goes between the legs to prevent the device from slipping over your child's head.. buckles on safety straps and reflective tape.. What makes a good PFD?PFD fit is essential
In terms of fit, the PFD should be snug on the wearer's body without impeding their natural paddle stroke or movement in the craft – and it shouldn't ride up the torso. Look for high levels of adjustability; the more straps and buckles the PFD has, the easier it is to adjust to your body shape.
What is the best type of PFD?Type I. Type I PFDs, are the most buoyant PFDs and suitable for all water conditions, including rough or isolated water where rescue may be delayed. Although bulky in comparison to Type II and III PFDs, Type I will turn most unconscious individuals to the face-up position.
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