Personal flotation devices (PFDs) and lifejackets come in many shapes, colours and materials. Some are made rugged to last longer while others are made to maintain body heat in cold water. No matter which PFD you choose, get one that is right for you, your planned activities and the water conditions you anticipate. Spend a little time now to choose and become familiar with the particular features of your PFD. It could save your life later.
Always look for a label stating that the PFD has been approved by Transport Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard, Fisheries and Oceans Canada or any combination thereof before you purchase and make sure you understand the regulations and requirements of using PFDs. Also ensure you properly maintain whatever PFD or lifejacket you choose.
Which Lifejacket is right for you?
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Use |
Advantages |
Safety of Life at Sea
(SOLAS) Lifejacket
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Inherent and Inflatable Type Lifejacket
RED, ORANGE OR YELLOW
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Off-Shore
Open or Rough Waters
Coastal Cruising
General Boating
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Best for all waters
Will turn most unconscious wearers face up
Available in two sizes (wearer over or under 32 kg)
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Standard Type Lifejacket
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Inherently Buoyant Lifejacket
RED, ORANGE OR YELLOW
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Inland waters or calm waters where fast rescue is likely
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Will turn most unconscious wearers face up
Available in two sizes (wearer over or under 40 kg)
Comfortable
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Small Vessel Lifejacket
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Inherent and Inflatable Type Lifejacket
RED, ORANGE OR YELLOW
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Inland waters or calm waters where fast rescue is likely
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Less flotation than Standard Type Lifejacket
Will turn wearer face up, but slowly
Keyhole or vest models
Available in three sizes
- Adult (over 40 kg)
- Youth (18 to 40 kg)
- Child (under 18 kg)
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Pleasure Craft PFD
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Inherent and Inflatable Type Lifejacket
MANY COLOURS
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Pleasure Craft usage only
Three or more chest belts recommended for high speed activities
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Least flotation
Limited turning capability
Generally the most comfort for continuous wear
Many styles available
Some designs targeted for specific use
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Children's Lifejackets
All lifejackets are clearly labeled with the appropriate weight range for the product. Check the label to match the weight range of your child. To check for a good fit, pick the child up by the shoulders of the lifejacket. If the lifejacket fits, the child's chin and ears will not slip through. You should look for the following safety features in your child’s lifejacket: large collar for head support, waist ties/gathers in front and back, a safety strap that goes between the legs to prevent the device from slipping over your child’s head, buckles on safety straps and reflective tape. You may also want to attach a non-metallic pealess whistle to the lifejacket. Also you should note that children’s lifejackets must be inherently buoyant (ie. not inflatable). Children come in many sizes and shapes. If a particular lifejacket style does not work well, try another one.
Types of Jackets
SOLAS Lifejacket
This Lifejacket is designed for extended survival in rough, open water. It usually will turn an unconscious person face up. This is the best Lifejacket to keep you afloat in remote regions where rescue may be slow in coming.
Standard Type Lifejacket
This "classic" Lifejacket comes in several sizes for adults and children and is for calm inland water where there is chance of fast rescue. It is less bulky and less expensive than a Type I, and many will turn an unconscious person face-up in the water.
Small Vessel Lifejacket
These Lifejackets are for use in calm water where there is good chance of fast rescue since they will turn an unconscious person face-up, but will do so slowly. They are available in three sizes and two styles (keyhole or vest), and provide less flotation that Standard Type Lifejackets.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
These Lifejackets are approved for pleasure craft use only and are generally considered the most comfortable, with styles for different boating activities and sports. They are for use in calm water where there is good chance of fast rescue since they will generally not turn an unconscious person face-up. Flotation aids come in many sizes, colours and styles.
Throwable Device
These are designed to be thrown to a person in the water. On most pleasure craft, buoyant heaving lines at least 15m in length are necessary equipment. Other throwable devices include lifebuoys (at least 61cm in diameter). They are not designed to be worn and must be supplemented by wearable Lifejacket. It is important to keep these devices immediately available for emergencies, and they should not be used for small children, non-swimmers, or unconscious people.
