| Boating Safety should be at the front of your mind | | | | used in conditions where rescue is considered to be |
| when heading out on the water. While there are many | | | | quick. |
| different types of Life Jackets out on the market, your | | | | * Type IV - Throwable PFD - Must be readily available |
| primary concern is: Do I have the correct product for | | | | in boats over 16 feet. Styles: Ring or cushion. |
| my situation? | | | | * Type V - Special Use Device - Used when higher |
| What ever term you use to describe it, whether it be | | | | buoyancy levels are required. |
| 'life jacket', 'life vest' or 'PFD' it is important that you, | | | | * Type III and V - Inflatable. - Will inflate quickly, turning |
| your family or friends are provided with the right | | | | users face-up quicker than other categories. |
| selection. Life Vests are broken down into three | | | | Selecting the right Life Preserver is not rocket science |
| primary categories: | | | | but your decision must be Coast Guard approved, in |
| 1. Inherently Buoyant (Foam) | | | | good serviceable condition, and an appropriate size for |
| 2. Inflatable | | | | the intended user. Most come in Adult, Youth and Child |
| 3. Hybrids that are both made of foam and inflatable. | | | | sizes except Inflatable Life Vest that only come in |
| PFD's are further broken down into the following | | | | Adult size. Life Vests must be snug when all zippers |
| sub-categories: | | | | and fasteners are connected. |
| * Type I - Offshore Life Jacket - Primarily used for | | | | It is mandatory that each person in the boat have one |
| extended survival in rough, open waters. | | | | available to them and easily accessible. A Life Jacket |
| * Type II - Near shore Life Jacket - Used for calmer | | | | is only good if worn by the boater! Check local state |
| inland water areas. | | | | and Federal laws regarding Life Preservers as these |
| * Type III - Flotation Aid - Comfortable and light weight, | | | | laws can change from time to time. |