One question that rarely comes our way in our day-to-day interactions is “Where is the best place to put PFDs while you are out on your boat?”.
At the same time, it does qualify as something we should all be familiar with. It can mean the difference between life and death, especially for anyone who actually owns a boat, or is expecting to go on a boat ride soon.
Not to mention, this question is vital for those studying for their marine and/or boating exams.
What are PFDs?
A personal flotation device (PFD) is a piece of floating equipment placed on the boat for your safety. Its purpose is to allow the person wearing it to float in the water with ease and prevent drowning.
PFDs come in a variety of colors, features, and sizes. The size is decided upon according to the person using them. The other features vary depending on the level of safety and security they’ll be required for.
There’s a certain type with extra thermal protection if you’re going into cold waters, another type if you’ll be using it for water sports, and so on.
The Best Place for PFDs
Boating rules and regulations are constantly being updated. Keeping an eye on what’s new is the best way to stay safe out in the water, and PFDs are certainly part of these safety procedures.
Read on more information on the best place to put PFDs while you’re out on your boat.
All PFDs should always be in a well-known, clearly visible part of the boat, preferably on the top deck of the boat. It’s the best place for them since it’s near where all the passengers are seated.
They can be placed in an open box or bin in a safe corner. PFDs should be in clear sight of all passengers with nothing hiding them in any way, such as any gear, other equipment, or any kind of covering.
This box or bin should be in a place that’s accessible and easy to reach in case of an emergency. This is to lower the risk of any delay in the time it takes for everyone to put them on.
There should be enough PFDs for every single person on board the boat. Each passenger should have one that’s properly fitted before going out on the water to make sure it’s in their size. PFDs are not a one-size-fits-all type of device.
Knowing what the right size is for each person depends on the person’s weight and chest size. There are only 2 exceptions to this rule:
- Children weighing less than 20 lbs
- People with a chest size of over 140 cm
The Coast Guard boating laws state that all children 13 years old and younger must wear a PFD at all times during their entire ride on the boat. This is also what boating laws recommend for adults, but it’s not compulsory.
Also, it’s important to remember that if you’re taking your dog out on the boat with you, there should be a canine flotation device available on the boat.
Even though almost all types of dogs are known to be good swimmers, it’s best to be on the safe side and avoid any mishaps that may occur due to any reason while you’re out on the water.
Is there a difference between lifejackets and PFDs?
Lifejackets and PFDs serve the same purpose. They’re both built to save people from drowning whether conscious or unconscious. Yet there are some features that differentiate between them.
Lifejackets
Lifejackets have more floating power than PFDs because their main design to make sure the person wearing them doesn’t remain face down in the water. Even if that person is unconscious, the floating material found in the front of the lifejacket flips them over so their face is above water.
The color of lifejackets is limited to only red, orange, or yellow. It must also have a whistle attached for easier rescue.
PFDs
There are 5 official types of PFDs. Each has different features to protect you against cold water, speed, and high winds. They’re mainly used by recreational boaters and those who know their way around a boat.
PFDs come in a range of different colors. Even though it does have reflective material, it’s best if you choose a color that’s bright and can be easily spotted in the water.
The material that makes them float can be found in the back. This feature makes it easier and less awkward to move around while wearing them. It also makes floating in the water less of a challenge.
PFDs are very practical for use with all water sports activities. Here are a few examples:
- Water skiing
- Surfing
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Rowing
- Fishing
- Paddleboarding
- Parasailing
- Snorkeling
Taking Care of your PFDs
The elements are a powerful force, and if PFDs are left out in the open when not needed, they can quickly wear away and become useless.
Any PFD that’s been in seawater should be rinsed well with fresh water, then left to drip dry away from the harsh exposure of the sun. Once they’re completely dry, they should be stored in a well-ventilated area, and kept away from moisture and sunlight.
Each device should be maintained properly and checked routinely for holes, tears, or rips. The zippers, straps, and seams should all be in proper condition.
Inappropriate storage, wrong treatment, and continuous exposure to sunlight and wind may affect the condition of the PFDs. If that’s the case, they should be replaced at once.
Conclusion
Being a responsible boat owner, or if you’re just enjoying a relaxing day on a boat, means you should regularly check all guidelines and rules.
It also means you now know the answer to the question: where is the best place to put PFDs while you’re out on your boat?
Keeping up with safety information and law changes is vital for your safety and the safety of everyone on the boat, as well as the safety of the boat itself.