Personal flotation devices (PFDs), life jackets, or life vests work by keeping the wearer safe, alive, and afloat in the water if they accidentally fall into the ocean or during water sports events. However, there are a few differences between them:

What's a PFD?

It's personal protective equipment, designed to save your life, in case a water sports event goes wrong and you end up in the water. It aids in flotation and gives the wearer more buoyancy to help stay afloat in water. It is the most essential piece of equipment for any water sports enthusiast, as it keeps the person safe by keeping their head and moth above the water's surface. In addition, it is a vest that is fastened to the wearer and does not require to be actively held onto, ultimately keeping the wearer from getting immersed in the water.

What's a Life Jacket?

A life jacket is a type of PDF. It comes in an essential vest that covers the wearer's back and chest and is attached at the front by zippers or ties. Its buoyancy must support the body's 10 to 12-pound weight when submerged, as it helps the wearer in the deep body of water and prevents them from drowning. Life jackets are mandatory on Off-Shore rigs, in which case, they consist of a pair of air cells that inflate when carbon dioxide is released from a gas canister – one for each cell.

What's the difference between PFD and Life Jacket?

1. Equipment Type: A life jacket is a personal flotation device, but a PFD is not necessarily a life jacket. Both are buoyancy aids suitable for use on those occasions when you expect to go in the water and need to swim easily. However, PFDs do not necessarily offer the same level of protection as a life jacket does for staying afloat.

2. Purpose: Life jackets are designed with a large collar designed to keep the head and mouth above water, whether the wearer is conscious or unconscious. On the other hand, a PFD doesn't have enough buoyancy to automatically turn the wearer and help him breathe. In addition, they are designed for prolonged use and constant wear, so they are more comfortable.

What are the 5 different types of PFDs?

The U.S. Coast Guard regulates PFDs and divides them into five types:

Type I: maximum buoyancy over 20 pounds.

Type II: buoyancy of 15.5 pounds.

Type III: recreational use like canoeing, kayaking, sailing, etc.

Type IV: throwable PFDs with a buoyancy of 16.5-18 pounds.

Type V: special-purpose life jackets.

What is a disadvantage of a Type III PFD?

Although the Type III PFDs are ideal for recreational, it does not do any good for extended wearing in rough water like a Type I PFD does. It does not guarantee to turn an unconscious user face up in the body of water. Additionally, it offers little or no righting movement.

What does PFD 150 mean?

In terms of buoyancy and safety, a Level 150 PFD refers to a super deep-water life jacket suitable for off-shore use. The number "150" means the PFD has a buoyancy of at least 150 Newtons.

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