Section PDF Site Map Personal Flotation Devices

LIFE JACKETS

There are five types of traditional foam flotation devices. Each is designed for different boating activities and water conditions and has its own maximum buoyancy, performance level, and limitations. You should choose your life jacket based on your boating activities and conditions, as recommended below. Buy a life jacket that you will wear.

Try to buy a brightly colored jacket, such as orange or yellow, so that you will be visible to rescuers. Take it out of the plastic, try it on, and learn how to adjust it for a snug fit. Then, test it in the water. Make sure it supports you and keeps your mouth and head clear of the water with no effort on your part. Then, try pulling it on once you're in the water... it's not as easy as it seems.

Manufacturers include valuable information about each PFD on the product label, and in an attached brochure. The label will give you information about what uses the jacket was intended for, along with information about the size of person it will fit, care instructions, and how to wear or 'don' the jacket. Keep in mind that using the jacket outside of its listed restrictions and intended use is illegal, and can result in receiving a ticket--or more importantly, the loss of a loved one. The picture below shows what you would find on a typical lifejacket label...

 

When should you wear your life jacket?

In general, the best time to wear your lifejacket is when you are near the water. Accidents happen...both on the dock, and on quiet, still waters. In fact, most boating fatalities occur when the boat is moving slowly or not at all. If you feel comfortable without a life jacket on during calm conditions, always keep your eye on weather and water conditions as they can deteriorate very rapidly. While you should always wear your PFD, it is particularly important to wear your PFD during the following times;

Even if you avoid these situations, if you are on an unfamiliar boat, or in unfamiliar waters, you should strongly consider wearing your life jacket. By law, recreational vessels must carry a properly fitted, serviceable PFD for every person on board.

A PFD should be comfortable to wear; it should not be too tight or too loose. Keep in mind a PFD may fit somewhat differently when in the water. Since PFDs are buoyant, it may float up on the user if improperly fitting or adjusted.

When in doubt about sizing, refer to the label on the inside of any U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD. Here, you will find a size usually expressed as ADULT SMALL through ADULT XX-Large, a recommend “user weight” and “chest size” for the intended wearer.

Finally, life jackets must be READILY AVAILABLE for use. That means they shouldn’t be buried in a locker under a pile of gear, or still in their packaging. Have them out, and ready for use. Better yet, wear one from the start!

What is buoyancy and Why is it important?

Buoyancy is the force, expressed in pounds, required to keep you afloat with your head and chin above the water. Since everyone's buoyancy requirements are different ­­ based on size, weight, sex, age, percent body fat, and general physical condition ­­ you should test your life jacket in the water to make sure it will offer you maximum performance when your life depends on it.

TYPE I - Inherently Buoyant:

Recommended uses:

Inflatable:

TYPE II - Near-Shore Inherently Buoyant:

Recommended uses:

INFLATABLE:

Recommended uses:

TYPE III - Flotation Aid Inherently Buoyant:

Recommended uses:

INFLATABLE:

Recommended uses:

TYPE IV - Throwable Device Inherently Buoyant:

Recommended uses:

NOTE - Type IV devices must be IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE for use. You must have one at arm's length to throw over the side in an emergency. Having one in a locker under the driver's seat isn't considered "immediately available."

TYPE V - Special Use Device:

Recommended uses:

TYPE V INFLATABLE: Automatic inflation models

Recommended uses:

TYPE V - Hybrids

INFLATION MECHANISM: When activated, a CO2 cartridge is pierced, releasing gas to inflate the device. Water-activated models inflate automatically when submerged in water. Manual units are activated by yanking a pull-tab. Both types of inflatables feature blow-tubes to provide a back-up method of inflation. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for checking and maintaining your inflation mechanism.

MAINTENANCE: Inflatable life jackets require more frequent maintenance than inherently buoyant life jackets.

Inflatables are NOT recommended for individuals who cannot swim (unless worn inflated) and are not for use where water impact is expected, like water skiing or riding a jet ski.

LIFE JACKETS and KIDS

A life jacket is no substitute for adult supervision of children in and around the water. Children float differently than adults. Because their body weight is distributed differently, children are more likely to float face down in the water. Children's life vests should have a crotch strap and a neck collar for the most protection.

Child PFD sizing is based on the child’s weight. Typically, child PFDs are sized in INFANT, CHILD and YOUTH sizes. Check the "user weight" on the label of any U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD when fitting a child in a PFD. Child weights are expressed in pounds and are typically marked as "less than 30 lbs.", "30lbs. to 50lbs." or "50 lbs. to 90 lbs."

Youth PFD Wearing Requirements

(Photo by Tampa Tribune)

As of January 1, 2006 there are 48 states and territories that mandate that children wear life jackets while on a boat under certain circumstances. As of December 2002, if you boat in one of the states without a children's PFD regulation, you are required to have all children under 13 wear a PFD while under way, unless they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin while boating on federal waterways.

This list does not include requirements for PFD usage while riding on a PWC or on a towed device such as skis or an inflatable tube.

Follow these simple steps to safeguard your family:

CARE and STORAGE of YOUR LIFE JACKET

  • Stow life jackets in an accessible place. Life jackets that are stored far from where everyone sits, or under gear are virtually worthless in an emergency. The USCG requires that wearable life jackets be READILY ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES. Also, at least one Type IV throwable device must be IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE for boats over 16 feet in length.
  • All kids should wear a properly fitted and correctly sized, bright, life jacket. Adults, for that matter, should set the example for children by wearing a life jacket.
  • Families should mark each life jacket with the person's name and store them facing up.
  • Teach your children how to put on their life jackets. Make a game or race of putting a life jacket on. It's the best way for children--and adults, to learn how to don a life jacket quickly. To make it more difficult, try putting them on in the water--it is far harder than you might think!

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR LIFE JACKETS...

DO'S:

  • Check your life jackets at the beginning of each boating season.
  • Check that all hardware and straps are in good shape, are firmly attached, and are in working order.
  • Check for leaks, mildew, lumpy or hardened buoyancy material, & oil saturation in the fabric.
  • Make sure that there are no rips or tears in the fabric.
  • Make sure that the label stating USCG approval is attached, and that it is readable.

DON'TS:

  • Don't use a life vest or throwable flotation cushion as a kneeling pad or boat fender.
  • Don't use harsh detergents or gasoline to clean it.
  • Don't remove any labels, straps or buckles.
  • Don't sew ANYTHING onto the life jacket.

STORAGE:

  • Store in an area with good ventilation.
  • If wet, allow it to dry thoroughly in open air before storing.
  • Drying it in a dryer, in front of a radiator, or other source of direct heat will destroy its buoyancy.

The amount of buoyancy (and life-saving value) your life jacket provides will decrease over time.

Treat your life jacket as if your life depends on it!