March 26, 2007
Not To Be Overlooked: PFDs
As we prepare to get back on the water in the colder climates and for those who are on the water year round it’s important to not overlook a critical component of a RIB: the safety equipment. Just as we routinely service the engine, inspect the tubes, and bottom paint as needed it’s essential that all safety equipment is kept up to date and safely stored onboard.
Over the next week or so, I will cover some of the basic safety equipment required by the U.S. Coast Guard as well as other items that though not required are a good idea to always have on board.
So – the first thing that is A MUST are PFDs (Personal Flotation Device). Every recreational boat must carry one wearable PFD (Type I, II, II or Type V) for each person on the boat. Any boat 16’ and longer must also carry one throwable PFD (Type IV).
All PFDs must be Coast Guard approved, in good and serviceable condition, and the appropriate size for the intended user. To put it simply, the best lifejacket is one that you’ll wear so it’s important that you select the ones to keep on board that you’d actually want to wear.
Other basic PFD requirements from the USCG:
- PFDs must be readily accessible
- You must be able to put them on in a reasonable amount of time in an emergency
- Should not be stowed in plastic bags, in locked compartments, or have other gear stowed on top of them
- Throwable devices must be immediately available for use
- Inflatable PFDs must have a full cylinder and all status indicators on the inflator must be green.
- USCG approved inflatable PFDs are allowed for people 16 years or older
- Children under the age of 13 must wear a USCG approved lifejacket unless they are below decks or in an enclosed cabin.
For more information, visit the United States Coast Guard safe boating website at www.uscgboating.org.
Posted by ribcraftusa at March 26, 2007 11:41 AM
