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When it comes to PFDs AKA lifejackets, in this day and age, there are 3 major types. They are: auto inflating, manual inflating and inherently buoyant which are typically filled with foam.
We are all known with naturally buoyant PFDs. As with other forms of PFDs these have become more comfortable over the years. If you wear one and you find yourself in the water no action is required for flotation. The foam is always on the go.
An exemplar of this type is the ExtraSport Challenger. This short waisted vest is an excellent multipurpose PFD.
In the latest years inflatable PFDs have gained in reputation. These can be worn around the neck or on the waist. When these are wrapped up in water a CO2 sealed unit is triggered and the vest inflates to provide buoyancy.
A substitute to an automatic inflatable is a manual inflatable. With this category you must drag a string to initiate the inflating process.
As to which type to put on, here is one sailor's belief. The naturally buoyant type is the mainly fail-safe. On the other hand, it may not be as comfortable as the naturally buoyant and for that reason not worn as frequently, reducing its usefulness.
The automatic inflatable can inflate when it is unnecessary. I have seen them inflate in humid cabins and as sailors take waves as they sit the railing.
The manual inflatable's difficulty can appear with the ripcord. For example, a fanny pack PFDs ripcord can hold on a winch or boat fitting and inflate.
The truth states that choosing a PFD is a conclusion that must be made. 9 out 10 boating deaths involve people not wearing PFDs. This is further borne out by 1999 Michigan boating statistics. Of the 28 boaters who died only 4 (or 14%) wore PFDs.
In addition, all leisure boats must carry one wearable PFD per person onboard. It only makes sense to have the most valuable equipment on hand.
Having participated in the rescue of 2 sailors at sea, I can mention first hand - a PFD is no assurance of rescue. The rescue would have been easier if our targets had been capable to float due to their PFDs.
While a PFD may not be suitable on a calm day at anchor, boating safety, which is corresponding to appropriate seamanship, means certain circumstances require PFDs.
According to Federal Requirements and Safety Tips for Recreational Boats all recreational boats must carry one wearable PFD (type I, II, III or type V PFD) for each person aboard.
A Type V PFD provides performance of either a Type I, II, or III PFD (as marked on its label) and must be used according to the label requirements. Any boat 16ft and longer (except canoes and kayaks) must also carry one throwable PFD (Type IV PFD).
The PFDs must be Coast Guard approved, in good and servicable condition and in appropriate size for the intended user.
The wearable PFDs must be readily accesible and able to put on in a reasonable amount of time in an emergency(vessel sinking, on fire etc.)
Also, they should not be stowed in plastic bags, in locked or closed compartments or have other gear stowed on top of them. The best PFD is the one you will wear. Although not required a PFD should be worn at all times when the vessel is underway. Remember this, a wearable PFD can safe your life, but only if you wear it!
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