PFD Information Needed
 

Need any information, links, pdf formats etc. on lifejackets that anyone can give me. One of the fire/rescue guys that works for the same boro as me needs all the information he can get to do a presentation on personal floatation devices. So who better to ask for info than the boaters. :) Already gave him the link to Lifeline Jackets. But any additional information in regards to types, uses and differences would be appreciated.

got this off of the uscg site.
http://www.uscgboating.org/safety/fedreqs/equ_pfd.htm

Thanks guys. I will pass this on.

Just tell him the larger the cup size the better she floats face up...

That only works with silicon... Saline acts like water balast! :)

helium implants???

Here's the Readers Digest version:

Type I is considered the offshore PFD with the most buoyancy, but it's bulky and uncomfortable and most people don't like them.

Type II is the most common. Inexpensive, but you get what you pay for. Less buoyancy than a Type I.

Type III is the vest type required for wave runners and for water skiing. About the same buoyancy as a Type II unless you really shelled out some serious coinage.

Type IV is a throwable PFD, either a round life ring or a square cushion with handles. A rope can be attached or not.

Type V is an inflatable. It is the most expensive and most comfortable when not inflated. The buoyancy rating is dictated by the cost.

Remember:

You are required to have one PFD per passenger on board and they must be in an accessible location in an emergency. It is your job as captain to make sure your passengers know where the PFDs are and how to put them on properly and quickly.

You are also required to have on board a Type IV throwable PFD while underway.

Adult size PFDs do not count for children. They are too big and the kids slip right out of them. Youth PFDs are required and they are rated by the weight of the child.

If you look through your inventory of PFDs and you find any of the old Kapok style, throw them away and get the new foam style. They probably have lost most of their buoyancy by now and if they are old enough they even form a combustion hazard.

Hope this helps. Stay safe out there.

It all helps. Personally i got plenty of what I need on my personal boat includint two throwables. Hey, it looks good when you get stopped. Im just trying to compile as much info to help the guy at my borough out. He's a non boater but has to do a 30 min presentation on PFD's. Im gonna lend him some of what I got for demos.