Marine Safety - Personal Flotation Devices

Do All Boats Need Personal Flotation Devices?

A vest or suit that acts as a Flotation Device is essential for all vessels. It helps the user to keep them from drowning in the waters. The wearer of the device won't need to swim or tread water to stay afloat. This personal safety gear keeps the wearer safe even if the person is unconscious. What the safety gear does is keep the head and mouth above the water.

PFDs are frequently worn on small watercraft like kayaks or in situations where accidental entry into deep water may occur. At the same time, PFDs are stored on large vessels for passengers to use in an emergency.

Types of Marine Personal Flotation Devices

Yachtxpress offers you several types of PFDs.

Type 1: High-coverage maximum flotation is a Type I PFD. They have at least 22 lbs of buoyancy on the front of the garment. These are the safest tools when rescue is far.

Type 2: Type II PFDs are intended for calmer excursions and require less flotation. They function best in calm inland waterways where help is readily available.

Type 3: The minimal buoyancy for Type III PFDs is 15.5 lbs. The majority of people use them when canoeing, kayaking, fishing, or operating personal watercraft for enjoyment.

Type 4: These are safety rings or cushions with a handle that can be thrown into the water and used by conscious persons.

Type 5: Special purpose jackets with a buoyancy of 15.5 to 22 lbs are known as Type V PFDs. They are designed specifically for that sport, such as deck suits, sailing harnesses, or kayak rescue jackets.