Now that kayak and canoe season is back in full swing for most of the country, we’d like to remind everyone that it is vital you wear a PFD when padding.
A PFD, or Personal Floatation Device, is also known as a life jacket. Experienced kayakers as well as new paddlers should never get in their boat without a PFD. The bottom line is you never know when you may be put in a position that you cannot maintain your own bouancy – regardless of how long you’ve been paddling, swimming, etc.
Not Just A Good Idea, It’s The Law
Many states require boaters – which includes kayakers and canoers – to wear a life vest or PFD at all times when on the water.
You should check with your own states boating regulations, but more than likely, your state has such a law.
Additionally many states are part of the Wear It! campaign that promotes wearing life jackets. States such as Michigan, California, Tennessee, Ohio and Florida are partner of the Wear It! initiative.
Click on the states above to learn even more about the importance of life vests and PFDs, as well as how you can join the cause and help promote wearing life jackets in your area.
So now that you know that you absolutely need a PFD or life jacket, how do you know which kind to get?
Which PFD Is Right For You?
Life jackets come in many shapes, sizes and styles. They fall into five basic categories — each with different features to serve different needs. Here are some kinds to consider:
Offshore Life Jacket
Designed for extended survival in large, rough waters where rescue may be slow in coming, this life jacket is required on commercial craft. This type can turn an unconscious person to a vertical or slightly backward position. Unless it’s inflatable, this life jacket tends to be bulky and uncomfortable in warm weather.
Near Shore Buoyant Vest
Considered the “most common” life jacket, this PFD is for use in calm, near shore waters where there is a chance of fast rescue. It is available in a variety of sizes and is less bulky and more affordable than the offshore life jacket. It will also turn most unconscious people face up in the water.
Flotation Aid
This life jacket is regarded as the “most comfortable,” with a wide range of styles for different boating activities and sports. Ideal for calm water situations, this type generally will not turn an unconscious person face up in the water unless it’s inflatable.
Throwable Device
Designed to be thrown to someone who has fallen overboard, this device should be immediately available for emergencies and should not be used for small children, nonswimmers or unconscious victims.
Special Use Device
This type of PFD is designed for a specific user and can include work vest and deck suits. The device contains varying levels of inherent buoyancy and is often inflatable to provide additional flotation. Some special use devices must be worn when the boat is underway.
Regardless of type, all life jackets must meet these U.S. Coast Guard requirements:
- Life jackets must have a “U.S. Coast Guard Approved” label with approval number listed.
- Since May of 1995, boats less than 16 feet in length (including canoes and kayaks of any length) must be equipped with wearable PFDs for each person on board.
- Each PFD must be the appropriate size for the person who wears it. Size, weight ranges, and recommended uses are listed on the label.
- All straps, buckles, zippers and stitching on a life jacket must be intact and the fabric should be in good condition.
- Life jackets must be readily accessible to occupants of a boat. They should not be stored in sealed packages or in a locked or closed storage area.
Be safe out there!
(some information for this post courtesy Wear It! Ohio)
Looking for paddling locations in your state?
Search our places to paddle page for places to kayak or canoe for flatwater or whitewater. Kayaking and canoeing paddling locations are listed by U.S. State
Subscribe to Kayak, Canoe, Races, Events by Email
