Personal Flotation Devices (Pfds) - Chris-Craft 32 Launch (RJ) Owner's Manual

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Federal regulations require that you have at least one Coast Guard-approved Personal Flotation Device
(PFD) for each occupant in a recreational boat. All PFDs must be in serviceable condition, readily acces-
sible, and legibly marked with the Coast Guard approval number. Each PFD must be of the appropriate
type and size for each individual occupying the boat.
The Coast Guard recommends, and many states require, wearing the appropriate PFD when:
• Water-skiing and other towed activities.
• While operating personal watercraft (PWC).
• During white water boating activities.
• While sail boarding (under Federal law sail boards are not boats).
Laws governing the use of a particular type of PFD for a particular activity varies from state to state.
Some states require that children wear a PFD at all times. For clarification on any state requirement,
check with the state boating safety officials.
There are three kinds of PFDs:
Within these three kinds there are five classes, known as Types, of PFDs, four wearable and one throw-
able. Only Type I is designed to turn an unconscious person's face upward, out of the water.
PFD Considerations
To obtain the best benefit from a PFD:
♦ Children, non and poor swimmers should wear a PFD at all times.
♦ Keep all PFDs in an accessible location.
♦ Ensure the PFD comfortably fits the individual, both in and out of the water.
♦ Practice using the PFD in the water. This will provide insight and confidence in its use.
♦ Teach all children how to put on and wear the PFD.
PFD Care:
♦ Do not store in plastic bags, locked in a compartment, or stowed beneath other gear.
♦ Do not store when wet. Allow to dry thoroughly. Do not use a radiator or heater to dry
♦ Store in a well-ventilated area.
♦ Keep PFDs away from sharp objects. Do not puncture.
♦ Inspect on a regular basis. Replace any damaged PFD. Ensure inflatable PFDs have no leaks.
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Safety And Operations
Foam, Inflatable, and Hybrid.
NOTICE
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