How to Buy an Inflatable Personal Flotation Device for Sailing
Inflatable personal flotation devices (PFDs) have become more comfortable and easier to wear than the old lifejackets.
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Things You'll Need
- Waterproof Jackets
- Foul Weather Gear
- Personal Flotation Devices
- Safety Harnesses
- Sea Boots
- Waterproof jackets
Instructions
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1
Determine whether the device has met U.S. Coast Guard approval requirements. You may not need approval if you don't count the inflatable PFD as one of the required PFDs.
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2
Select between vest and belt types of inflatables. Vests inflate around the victim's neck and have more secure webbing around the back. Belts are less cumbersome when they are uninflated.
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3
Consider a built-in safety harness (available in vests). The existence of a harness may alter the type and approval status of the PFD.
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4
Select the appropriate inflation option. You can choose one of three methods: automatic, manual (ripcord) or oral inflation.
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5
Check the buoyancy rating. Inflatables often exceed federal requirements.
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Tips & Warnings
An inflatable PFD that can only inflate orally could pose a danger for nonswimmers, poor swimmers or incapacitated overboard victims.
