There are many different designs of devices to assist a person floating in the water. The features they offer and where they are to be used influences how they are named.
The old US Type classification system called everything a PFD, a Personal Flotation Device Type I through V. In Canada they distinguished between PFDs and life jackets (with turning ability).
The new Performance Classification System refers to a numbered scale with Buoyancy Aids at the lower range and life jackets at the upper end. Recent improvements to standards for life jacket design, construction and testing have led to changes that will offer more choice to users.
Canada and the United States have worked together to harmonize their life jacket standards in order to:
All current approved life jackets and PFDs (personal flotation devices) will continue to be legally approved for carriage as long as they are still in good condition, readily available and of the correct size to be worn for each person on board.
US approved devices are acceptable in the USA, and Transport Canada approved devices are acceptable in Canada.
New devices with new labels under the new performance classification system are acceptable in both countries. New devices tested to new standards will be phased in as introduced by manufacturers.
Currently approved devices will continue to be acceptable on board as long as they are in good condition. New devices available in stores will begin to have new labels, with clear information and icons indicating performance of the device in the water. Devices with new labels are approved for use in Canada and the United States. Devices with old labels continue to be approved in one country or the other, not both. Read the label.
Check with state and local authorities for specific PFD/life jacket requirements for both (Type I-V) and harmonized systems.
The size of the device is shown on the label, (usually near the back of the neck) stated as a measure of mass (weight). A chest measurement or height may also be indicated. The label is a general guideline only as body type and size vary greatly. Most devices are adjustable for GOOD FIT.
Try it on! Try it out in the water!
The warnings panel on the label includes important information for the user about the device and its intended use.
Icons are used to inform the user that a device may not be appropriate for certain activities, such as water-skiing, towed sports or personal watercraft. (Some jurisdictions may have regulations about what device design is required).
The approval panel indicates that the device has been approved by the United States Coast Guard and Transport Canada.
Other important information includes:
The maintenance panel on the label includes information on the care and use of the device. Icons are used to inform the user about cleaning and drying the device. Reminders about fastening the device for GOOD FIT and the importance of inspecting for damage before use and storage are included here, with reference as well to reading manufacturers information.
Devices are designed, constructed and tested under controlled conditions and assigned a Performance Level that indicates the conditions of use for which it is intended.
Performance is a combination of factors - buoyancy, freeboard, turning, stability and visibility.
The icons on new labels are international symbols that are adopted from the International Standards Organization (ISO) sub-committee for life jacket standards.
For more info, visit https://safeboatingcampaign.com/wearitlifejacket/en/home.html
Off-Shore Life Jacket
Best for open, rough or remote water, where rescue may be slow coming
Sizes:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Near-Shore Buoyant Vest
Good for calm, inland water, or where there is a good chance of fast rescue
Sizes:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Flotation Aid
Good for calm, inland water, or where there is a good chance of fast rescue
Sizes:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Throwable Device
For calm, inland water with heavy boat traffic, where help is always nearby
Kinds:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Special Use Devices
Only for special uses or conditions. Equal to either Type I, II, or III performance as noted on
the label
Varieties include:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Defender carries a complete line of USCG Approved Life Jackets and PFD's from Mustang Survival, Revere, Stearns, Spinlock, Kent, Full Throttle, Onyx, and more.
Note: 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). For more info:
Boating Safety site