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Standard lifejackets

  • These lifejackets will turn you on your back to keep your face out of the water, even if you are unconscious, but not as fast as SOLAS lifejackets.
  • Standard Type lifejackets are available in two sizes; one for individuals over 40kg or 88lbs and one for individuals less than 40kg or 88lbs.
  • Standard Type lifejackets are available in the keyhole model

SMALL VESSEL LIFEJACKETS

  • Small Vessel lifejackets provide the slowest performance in the water. They will turn you on your back to keep your face out of the water, even if you are unconscious, but may do so more slowly than the standard lifejacket.
  • Small Vessel lifejackets are available in three sizes; one for individuals over 41kg or 90lbs, one for individuals between 18kg or 40lbs and 41kg or 90lbs, and the other for individuals less than 18kg or 40lbs.
  • Small Vessel lifejackets are available in two models, the keyhole model and the vest model .

PFDs

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs), unlike traditional lifejackets, are more comfortable because they are designed for constant wear. However, they do not generally offer the same level of protection as lifejackets for staying afloat and turning an unconscious person onto their back so you can breathe. PFDs are available in a wide range of approved types, sizes and colours, so it is important to choose one based on your needs and your boating activity. 

 

INFLATABLES

Inflatable lifejackets have been designed for wearability. However if you decide that an inflatable best suits your boating needs, it is important that you understand its limitations, how to use it and how to care for it.

All inflatable PFDs have an oral inflation tube in case the CO2 inflation system fails. However, for weak swimmers, this might be hard to use when they are trying to keep their head above water. It is important to know that inflatable PFDs are not approved under the following conditions:

  • Anyone under 16 years old.
  • Anyone who weighs less than 36.6 kg or 80lbs.
  • Use on a personal watercraft.
  • White water paddling activities.
 

Content from Canadian Safe Boating Council. For more information on lifejackets, PFDs, and inflatables visit www.csbc.ca