How Does a Personal Flotation Device Work?
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Planning Your Activity
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A personal flotation device only works when a person wears the device to protect from drowning. A personal flotation device must be U.S. Coast Guard approved for use on vessels larger than 16 feet, must be in good condition and fit correctly to perform the function of keeping the user afloat until rescue. Recreational boaters typically use personal flotation devices on their vessels for safety and because they are required by law to carry one life vest for each passenger.
There are many names for the personal flotation device, including life vest and life preserver. There are flotation rings and cushions that can be tossed to a struggling swimmer. A personal flotation device can have a foam core or be inflatable or can be a combination of both. A personal flotation device should be chosen based on the planned water activity and should be sized suitably for the wearer.
Choosing the Correct Type
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Choosing the correct type of personal flotation device is imperative for safety. Begin by assessing where you will be using it. Will you be near other boaters or near the shore? A personal flotation device is designed based on the length of time you might be in the water. There are strict weight guidelines for each type of personal flotation device.
A foam personal flotation device can be both a wearable and throwable life saver. This type of personal flotation device has a foam core that allows the user to float on the surface of the water. A foam core personal flotation device is not intended to be a life saver and generally will only aid in keeping a person afloat rather than keeping him completely buoyant. This flotation device comes in adult, youth, child and infant sizes. A foam life preserver won't always keep an unconscious person's head above water until rescue. Life buoys and cushions are part of the group of foam personal flotation devices. In addition, this type of personal flotation device is intended for near shore.
An inflatable life jacket is a compact, adult-only personal flotation device. An inflatable will keep a person's head above water if unconscious and will almost always turn a person face up in the water. This types of life jacket is used in off shore situations because it tends to be more buoyant than foam core life preserver.
There are also hybrid foam and inflatable combination jackets available. In addition, special use deck suits and work vests are used by professional fishermen and boaters to aid them in foul weather conditions.
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Wearing the Personal Flotation Device
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A personal flotation device will not work unless a person wears it. According to the Personal Flotation Device Manufacturers Association, nine out of 10 drownings occur in inland waterways within minimal distance from safety. Most drowning victims had access to a personal flotation device, but did not wear it. Make sure that you re-evaluate the use of your personal flotation device regularly. Also check the condition of your life vest. Check for wear and fraying of the straps and latches. Make sure to never alter the vest in any way. Follow the care instructions provided with the personal flotation device. For children, make sure to replace life preservers as soon as the children exceed the maximum weight limit.
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