Floatation devices vital for any trip on the water

With the boating season in full swing, I have received a number of requests for information about PFDs. As most people know, that is the abbreviation for Personal Floatation Devices. A PFD gives you buoyancy to help you stay afloat in the water.

A PFD is an essential piece of gear for every kayaker, canoer, and even stand-up paddle boarder. A PFD is required for boating safety, and with today’s high-performance boats being used for many applications, such as pleasure boating, water skiing and competitive fishing tournaments, you should have a PFD in your boat for every person on board.

Just remember, they are like seat belts and shoulder harnesses in automobiles. They will not work if they are not used! Standard PFDs are a tried-and-true device, but many of the older styles were bulky and uncomfortable. Many people did not want to wear them, but today, there Inflatable PFDs that are very lightweight. You are hardly aware you have them on.

(* NOTE: in some cases, an approved, flat boat cushion is considered acceptable, but I do not recommend them over the “vest” style PFD.)

One thing to consider is the proper size and fitting. The size for adults is based on your chest size. You are looking for a snug, but comfortable, fit. You can also get features like pockets, colors and tabs, and specifications, but make certain it has a label stating, “floatation and U.S. Coast Guard approved.” Don’t let price influence your decision.

One of the advantages of a standard PFD is it is low maintenance. Other than keeping it clean, dry, and out of the sun when not in use, it requires very little care. All you have to do is put it on properly. You do not have to activate anything to make it buoyant and provide floatation.

The standard PFD is normally preferred by kayakers, canoers, water skiers, and some anglers. Some of the disadvantages are they are bulky and rather restrictive while paddling, and they are hotter on a hot summer day.

Personally, I prefer the inflatable PFDs. They have a slim profile, making them extremely comfortable to wear. These are labeled Type 111 or Type V USCG approved. They are available in manual activation or automatic activation.

The manual activation will have a cord you pull, and it activates a CO2 gas cartridge that inflates the vest. The automatic design activates when submerged in water. The manual design is normally best for active use because the likelihood of getting wet is greater.

The pros of the inflatable PFD is the slim design is comfortable and less restrictive of your range of motion while paddling or casting, and they are cooler and can keep you more comfortable on hot days.

The disadvantage is they require regular maintenance to ensure proper operation. You need to replace the CO2 cartridge after each inflation. They are also not recommended for children under 16 or for non-swimmers. And the inflatable PFDs are rather pricey.

Regardless of which PFD you choose, use it! You never know when you might be operating your trolling motor and hit a submerged stump, lose your balance, and fall overboard. Trust me, it can happen! There is always the possibility you could strike your head on the console of your boat or the side of the boat and be unconscious and drown.

When it comes to pricing of PFDs, consider this point: how much is your life of the life of your child worth? You cannot put a price on a life. Make sure you get the proper size needed for yourself and all passengers in your watercraft.

Boating is so much fun, and it can be enjoyed by your entire family. PFDs are like seatbelts and harnesses in your car or truck. They won’t work if you don’t use them. Don’t take chances. Use your PFD!