Types Of Pfds - Chris-Craft 2015 21 Carina Owner's Manual

Types Of PFDs

There are Five types of PFDs as shown in the table 2.2. below.
Type
Offshore:
Provides most buoyancy. Designed for remote or rough waters where
I
rescue may take awhile. Keeps head out of water in face-up position.
Comes in two sizes: adult and child.
Near-Shore:
Intended for calm and inland waters where rescue may be quick. May
II
turn unconscious wearer face-up. Not as efficient as Type I.
Flotation Aids:
Vest or full-sleeved jacket style. Intended for calm waters. Not recom-
mended for rough waters as they may not keep individual face-up. Gener-
III
ally used for water sports. Most comfortable for continuous wear. Some
Type III's will inflate when you enter the water.
Throwable Devices:
Cushion, horseshoe, or ring buoy style. Designed to be thrown to some-
IV
one in the water. Not designed as a personal flotation device that can be
constantly worn. Should be attached to a polypropylene rope.
For emergency use only.
Special Use Device: Special Use Device:
Designed for specific activities such as kayaking or water skiing. Varie- Designed for specific activities such as kayaking or water skiing. Varie-
ties include deck suits, work vests, board sailing vests, and hybrid types. ties include deck suits, work vests, board sailing vests, and hybrid types.
If counted as a minimum PFD requirement, it must be worn and used in If counted as a minimum PFD requirement, it must be worn and used in
V
accordance with their label. accordance with their label.
Hybrid Inflatable: Hybrid Inflatable:
Least bulky of all PFD types. Has both foam and an inflatable chamber. Least bulky of all PFD types. Has both foam and an inflatable chamber.
Performance equal to Type I, II, or III PFDs when inflated. To be accept- Performance equal to Type I, II, or III PFDs when inflated. To be accept-
able hybrid PFDs must be worn when underway. able hybrid PFDs must be worn when underway.
Table 2.2. Types of PFDs
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Safety And Operations Safety And Operations
Description Illustration
2-19