If you go out and buy a great PFD that feels comfortable and brings features to the table, the best life jacket may feel more like a fashion accessory than a mandatory safety measure. Most people hate them because they're borrowing a cheap one that doesn't fit properly. Wearing a life jacket does not have to be a chore, though. Those laws are around for good reason: Just like a seatbelt, you never think that you’ll need a life jacket until the moment when you really need one. In fact, they are required for boating in many parts of the US. It’s the single most important piece of protective gear you have when things go sideways in a kayak or on water skis. Wipe your vest thoroughly after every wear, and store it in a dry place to help extend the product life.Life jackets or “personal floatation devices,” if you prefer, are a non-negotiable part of many water sports. Inspecting it for rips and tears between each use is crucial, and double-check the CO2 cylinder immediately before hitting the water. Your inflatable life vest can last up to ten years with proper care and maintenance checks. How long does an inflatable life jacket last? They may require more than one step for proper inflation. Type V PFDs or special-use devices offer performance equal to either Type I, II, or III, as noted n the label. There are currently no USCG-approved inflatable Type IV PFDs. Type IV PFDs or throwable devices are not designed to be worn continuously but instead thrown to the person in the water to use for support until rescued. While they'll keep wearers face-up after inflation, they're not recommended for long hours in the water. Type III PFDs or floatation aids are intended for use in protected waters where a speedy rescue can be expected. Type II PFDs or near-shore buoyancy vests are designed for calmer inland waters where rescue can be expected quickly. Plus, they turn most unconscious wearers face up for improved safety. They offer the best buoyancy and visibility. Type I PFDs or off-shore life jackets are effective in all waters, including rough and remote water, where rescue may be delayed. Here's a quick breakdown to help you differentiate them: Inflatable life jackets are classified into different categories based on their buoyancy, performance in the water, and intended end use. Why are there different types of inflatable PFDs? Manual vests can simply be deflated through a simple valve and stored away for subsequent use. Replacement inflation cylinders can be purchased through the jacket's manufacturer and installed at home. Yes! After each use, you'll need to replace the single-use CO2 cylinder that fills the jacket's airbag upon submersion. It's better to be diligent now than to have your life jacket fail during an emergency. Be sure to double-check a product's safety certifications before making a purchase. According to the Department of Homeland Security, "an inflatable PFD may be approved without conditions as a Type I, II or III PFD for persons over 36.3 Kg/80 lbs" if it meets certain safety and performance requirements. Some (but not all) inflatable life vests are Coast Guard-approved. Are inflatable life vests Coast Guard approved? Non-swimmers should use traditional life jackets that remain buoyant at all times. Inflatable life jackets are best suited for competent swimmers aged 16 or older. They're incompatible with water skiing, white water rafting, tubing, and other high-intensity water sports. Are inflatable life vests safe?Īccording to the US Coast Guard, inflatable personal floatation devices (PFD) are safe for recreational use for paddle-boarding, kayaking, and other low-impact water activities. Give them a quick read before you begin shopping to guarantee you find just the right one. Below, we've answered commonly asked questions about safety, sizing, and product maintenance. Have questions about inflatable life jackets? We've got answers.
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