Rescue TECHNotes

 

 

 

PFD's:  "IMPACT RATED vs. PWC RATED

According to Edward Chen, President of FirstWatch, the “Impact Rated” category was eliminated a few years ago.  There is a small section of the standard that deals with “PWC-Rated” PFD’s. A PWC-Rated PFD is a Type III PFD that has both a zipper and buckle closure.  The webbing / Buckle size must be a 1.5” minimum width and must fully encircle the torso.

Here is some additional information that I found that is pertinent to the PFD questions that were posed at the conference.  

Type III PFDs are suitable for most paddlers where there is a chance for quick rescue. They offer freedom of movement and comfort for continuous wear. These PFDs are designed so wearers can put themselves in a face-up position, but they may have to tilt their head back to avoid being face down in water. Type III PFDs come in inherently buoyant, inflatable or hybrid designs.  Source:  REI

Type III Buoyancy requirement:  15.5 lbs.

Each person riding on a PWC must wear a U. S. Coast Guard approved Type I, II, III or V personal flotation device which is properly fitted and fastened. Inflatable Type V PFDs are not approved for PWC. Source: GA Dept of Natural Resources

Additional features that make a Type III PFD more personal watercraft specific, look for a beefy plastic D-ring sewn into the vest, typically along the bottom seam. The ring allows you to clip on a PWC’s safety lanyard, securing it to the rider while also keeping it out of the way.