The vest you choose will depend upon its usage. There are several types of vests. I highly recommend that any vest you choose to wear should be USCG (United States Coast Guard) approved. These jackets are approved because of their buoyancy and will serve as a flotation device should you fall in the water and need assistance. These jackets have been approved and are safe. Beginners especially should consider wearing a USCG vest. They are also referred to as “PFD” Personal Flotation Device.
Generally there are 4 types of PDF:
TYPE I/Off Shore Life Jackets: These are best for all open waters, rough seas, or fresh water where rescue may be slow coming.
TYPE II/Near Shore Buoyant Vests: These are for general boating activities and inland waters where a faster rescue is likely to occur.
TYPE III/Flotation Aids: These are also for general boating, or a specialized activity such as water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, or fishing. They are available in many designs and forms depending on the activity.
TYPE V/Special Use Devices: These are only for special uses or conditions. Please refer to the label for the limits of use and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. You can obtain additional information on PFD’s from the United States Coast Guard.
It’s very important that you wear a PDF, even the most experienced swimmers can run the risk of injury or DEATH. You must wear a PDF if you are under the age of 6. In 2006, a Florida law was passed “No person shall operate a vessel less than 26 feet in length on the waters of this state unless every person under 6 years of age on board the vessel is wearing a type I, type II, or type III Coast Guard approved personal flotation device while such vessel is underway. For the purpose of this section, “underway” shall mean at all times except when a vessel is anchored, moored, made fast to the shore, or aground.” You will need to check the laws of the state in which you reside for information on who is required to wear a PDF while operating and/or riding on a water vessel.”No matter what your style, be smart and safe! Wear a vest when you fall and crash, you will be glad you did!
