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Anchors and Docking
Life Jackets (PFDs)
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) are an essential piece of boating gear designed to keep the wearer afloat for extended periods of time. PFD life jackets are part of the regulated safety equipment checklist, and something that every sailor, kayaker, fisher and boater needs to think about. Here at Boating & RV, we are happy to walk you through what you need for your activities, whether your activities are as simple as lake fishing, or as complex as sailing around the world.
Types of PFD Life Jackets
In Australia, PFDs and boat life jackets are rated on their buoyancy via the Newton system. The most common PFDs fall under 50N, 100N or 150N. These buoyancy levels are suitable for different activities, as per state legislation. When picking your PFD, ensure that you are picking the right life jacket for the right conditions. You can find out which level is required by researching your state or country's maritime policies.
PFDs can come in either a foam or inflatable design. Foam PFDs are bulkier, but have the benefit of being 'active' as soon as the wearer is in the water. This is especially useful for those in dinghy sailing, jet skiing or open boats, where the wearer may find themselves in the water unexpectedly. Inflatable life jackets can be quite lightweight, and low profile, but require the life jacket to be inflated before it offers any buoyancy. Inflation can be triggered via a manual or automatic switch that detects water, but both require that the PFD be properly maintained and armed with a CO² canister. Maintaining and servicing must be done on a yearly basis and it is the responsibility of the owners to check their devices regularly.
Fitting Boat Life Jackets
Manufacturers will have a recommended weight range for their life jackets that can be referenced when choosing which one to purchase. The life jacket should be able to be done up, with zippers fastened securely and buckles tightened to ensure that the wearer cannot slip out. Boating & RV stores have a wide selection of life jackets available to try. We can also order life jackets from the industry's biggest providers, such as Crewsaver, Burke, Axis and Zhik upon request.
Do you have your required safety equipment?
Check out the links below for the regulations for your state.
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