ABCs of PFDs

According to the CDC, 710 people died in boating accidents in 2006. Among those who drowned, 9 out of 10 were not wearing PFDs (Personal Floatation Devices).

The Coast Guard requires you have a PFD of appropriate size accessible on your boat (including kayaks and canoes). People often ask which is the best PFD - it is the one you are wearing, and the better it fits the more likely you are to wear it. In rough or cold water, having the PFD on can be the difference between life and death.

When choosing a PFD for kayaking or canoeing, look for the following features:

- multiple adjustment points to customize the jacket to your body shape

- start with the lowest adjustments and work up to the shoulders for the best fit

- large arm openings to prevent chaffing when you paddle

- lash tabs to attach lights, knives and whistles

- pockets to access sunscreen, granola bars and other small items quickly and conveniently

- bright colors to increase the chance of being seen on the water

Most adults need 7 to 12 pounds of floatation to keep their head out of the water. The greater the amount of floatation, the faster you’ll rise to the surface. However, more buoyant PFDs are bulky and can be difficult to paddle in. The Coast Guard classifies PFDs into the following categories:

Class I - the most buoyant (22 lb) for use in all types of water, especially rough, open or remote water. Designed to turn most unconscious wearers face-up.

Class II - for calm, inland water where there is a good chance of a quick rescue. These will turn some unconscious wearers face-up, but not all. Minimum of 15.5 lb floatation.

Class III - this is the most comfortable category of PFDs. They are designed for conscious victims with a chance at quick rescue. Same buoyancy as Class II (15.5 lb), but will not put a wearer into the face-up position.

Class IV - these are the “throwable” devices and are not designed to be worn. They have 15.5 lb to 22 lb of buoyancy and are the common cushions, rings and horseshoes.

Class V - these are PFDs with specific uses such as rescue vests and flotation suits

Most of the PFDs we stock at Backcountry are Class III. Our PFDs for small children are Class II because they will help little ones stay face-up. Try on the jacket, move around in it, and make sure you can comfortably wear it for several hours - it could be a life saver.