Which Personal Flotation Device Do You Need?

A personal flotation device, or PFD, is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment you can have on your boat. However, to ensure you’re choosing the right device for you and your passengers, it’s important to have a solid understanding of the many different models on the market. To learn more about the many types of PFDs, their unique features, and which model may be right for you, be sure to read our helpful guide below.

Type I and Type II Flotation Devices

While both of these flotation devices look similar in appearance, their intended use is rather different. While both devices will help you quickly reach the surface of the water, Type II models aren’t as buoyant, and are instead meant to be worn in calm inland waters where help is close at hand. Type I models on the other hand are extremely buoyant, are perfect for rough waters, and can even support a wearer’s neck to keep them from drowning if knocked unconscious.

Type III and Type IV Flotation Devices

Unlike the flotation devices above, Type III models appear much more similar to clothing than other PFDs. Type III models often come in the form of coats and jackets, and are used to help keep the wearer warm in cold weather conditions. Like a Type II device, these flotation devices only have enough buoyancy for calm waters and offer no protection from the cold once immersed in water.

On the opposite end of the spectrum are Type IV flotation devices, which often come in the shape of small tubes, and are meant to be thrown (rather than worn) to a person that has fallen overboard. Like a Type I model, these PFDs are extremely buoyant, however, the user will need to be conscious in order to grab and use the device. If your vessel is over 16 feet long, it’s required that you have a working Type IV flotation device onboard, in case of an emergency.

Searching for some of the helpful flotation devices listed above? Then you’ll want to visit us here at Moritz Marine! Our location here in Mandan, North Dakota offers a wide variety of different PFDs, as well as other helpful boating accessories and equipment. If you’re located nearby in Bismarck or Dickinson, North Dakota, we hope to see you here soon at Moritz Marine.