CHAPTER 2: Boating Equipment
PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE TYPES AND CARRIAGE
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)terminology for a life preserver, either a jacket or throwable device. can save lives, especially when worn. Therefore, the U.S. Coast Guard requires PFDs on board all vessels. When choosing a PFD, please ensure that it can support your size and weight and is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
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PFD TYPE
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BEST FOR
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DISADVANTAGES
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NOTES
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TYPE I:
OFFSHORE LIFE JACKET
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All waters, especially open, rough, or remote waters where rescue can be delayed
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Large and awkward; difficult to swim in
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Adult size: 22 lb. of buoyancy.
Child size: 11 lb. of buoyancy.
Will turn unconscious wearers to face-up position.
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TYPE II:
NEAR-SHORE BUOYANT VEST
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Calm, inland waters The navigable waters of the United States shoreward of the navigational demarcation lines dividing the high seas from harbors, rivers, and other inland waters of the United States, and the waters of the Great Lakes on the United States side of the International Boundary. where there is a good chance of rescue
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May not turn some unconscious wearers face-up
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Adult size: 15 1/2 lb. of buoyancy.
Child size: 11 lb. of buoyancy.
Infant size: 7 lb. of buoyancy.
Will turn some unconscious wearers to face-up position.
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TYPE III:
FLOTATION AID
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Calm, inland waters where there is a good chance of rescue
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Wearers must put themselves in face-up position
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Same buoyancy as Type II.
examples:
Float coat, fishing vest, water sport vest.
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TYPE IV:
THROWABLE DEVICE
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All waters where help is present
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Not designed to be worn; intended for use in waters with heavy boat traffic
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Designed to be thrown and grasped until rescued; never worn.
examples:
Cushions, ring buoys, horseshoe buoys
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TYPE V:
SPECIAL USE DEVICE
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Specific activities; check approval condition on label
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Some Type Vs are designed for cooler climates and others are approved only when worn
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