The Basics on Life Jackets
Attorney
(866) 735-1102 Ext 315
Now that summer is upon us, checking our boats to ensure we have the proper equipment for our passengers is a must. Many of us have heard the term Personal Flotation Device (PFD), also known as a life jacket. While most of us are aware of its importance, few people know the standard requirements for a personal floatation devices or that there are different types.
All life jackets onboard a motorboat must be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. The U.S. Coast Guard requires that there be one life jacket on board for each person on the vessel. These PFDs must be easily accessible, meaning that a reasonable person must be able to reach the life jacket and put it on within a reasonable amount of time in the case of an emergency (sinking boat, fire, etc.).
This means that PFDs should not be locked in cabin compartments or have geared stowed on top of them. Furthermore, life jackets should not be tied in plastic bags since this may hinder people from accessing them during an emergency.
All persons on a personal watercraft, such as a jet ski, must wear a PFD . The same applies to persons being towed behind a motorboat (for example: jet skiing or tubing).
There are 5 types of life jackets; they are labeled types I-V. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources provides some helpful information in distinguishing between the types of PFDs available:
Type I is an Offshore Life Jacket which is designed for rough waters and is commonly used in instances where rescue is not immediately anticipated.
Type II is the opposite of Type I PDFs. These are called Near-Shore Vest, which are best used in calm waters when fast rescue is likely.
Type III life jackets are called full-sleeved jackets and are good for calm waters. They are not recommended for rough waters since most will not turn unconscious persons facing an upwards position.
Type IV floatation devices are not wearable, but rather for throwing to stranded persons in the water.
Type V is commonly called a Special-Use Device. They are often designed for a specific use such as wind surfing or jet-skiing.
It is important for individuals shopping for life jackets to check the labels on all life jackets they wish to purchase to ensure it meets the approval of the U.S. Coast Guard and is designed for their saftey needs.