Connecticut Water Trails Association
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Connecticut Water Trails Association |
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Connecticut Water Trails Program
How To Choose A PFD
Choosing the right Personal Floatation Device, or
PFD, is a very important
decision. It is state law that every person on the water wear a personal
floatation device (PFD). Some rivers or lakes have different
requirements on PFD types. Most bodies of water require a minimum of a
type III PFD. Make sure that you buy a jacket that you feel comfortable
in because you will be wearing it almost as much as your favorite shirt.
You must have at least one, U.S. Coast Guard approved, wearable PFD for
each person onboard, and it must be the appropriate size. If your boat
is 16 feet or longer (generally excluding canoes and kayaks but check
your state's regulations) you must also have one throwable device (Type
IV PFD).
How Many PFDs Do I Need? You must have at least one, U.S. Coast Guard approved, wearable PFD for
each person onboard, and it must be the appropriate size. If your boat
is 16 feet or longer (generally excluding canoes and kayaks but check
your state's regulations) you must also have one throwable device (Type
IV PFD).
PFDs are categorized by Type, i.e. Type I, II, III, IV or V. Types I, II
and III are commonly worn by recreational boaters, while Type IVs are throwable devices such as life rings and buoyant cushions. Type Vs are
for special uses
Choosing Your PFD
You must have at least one, U.S. Coast Guard approved, wearable PFD for
each person onboard, and it must be the appropriate size. If your boat
is 16 feet or longer (generally excluding canoes and kayaks but check
your state's regulations) you must also have one throwable device (Type
IV PFD).
Here's How:
1. Personal Floatation Device (PFD)-SIZE You want to choose your personal floatation device (PFD) based on your chest size. When trying on life jackets loosen all the straps, put it on, and zip up the front.
2. Personal Floatation Device (PFD)-FITTING Once you have the personal floatation device (PFD) on start tightening the straps from the bottom of the PFD up. Start with your waist strap and then the side adjustments. The personal floatation device (PFD) should fit snug but still be comfortable. You should also tighten the shoulder straps if the jacket has them.
3. Personal Floatation Device (PFD)-TEST Now that you have the personal floatation device (PFD) on and secure you will want to test it out to make sure it fits correctly. Have a friend or sales person pull up on the shoulder straps. If the personal floatation device (PFD) comes up to your mouth or over your head then the jacket is to large or not fitted properly.
4. Personal Floatation Device (PFD)-PRACTICE After you find a personal floatation device (PFD) that fits correctly try sitting on the ground or a chair and practice some kayaking or canoeing moves. Do this to see if the personal floatation device (PFD) moves comfortable or if it pinches or feels uncomfortable during certain actions.
Tips:
Choose your PFD based on what you will be doing. Don't buy a ski life jacket if you plan to kayak or vice versus. Find out what the
PFD requirements are for your state. Some states require a type III
while others a type V.
Size and fit are
important. Make sure your PFD fits tightly but leaves room for
movement. Almost 90% of those who drown are not wearing a life jacket!
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