Friday, August 10, 2012

Reasons that a PFD keeps People Safe on the Water

By Robert Cliford


The United States Coast Guard has the responsibility of approving any pfd, short for personal flotation device, used within the country. Authorized search and rescue agencies typically test the performance of new safety equipment. The equipment comes in different sizes and shapes. Sports sections carry them for one specific reason. When it is worn, it becomes a protective barrier between a person and the surface of the water. In the event a person is washed overboard, the vest makes the victim more visible to rescue workers.

The image of brilliant orange combined with bulky pieces wrapped around the chest and back comes to mind when people think of water safety. The typical lifejacket drill that takes place on cruise ships features that type of device. Straps cinch the jacket tight, but it must still be the proper size. The lifejackets are stored at different stations across the ship. If your station is missing a vest for your child, ask the team leader to place one in the locker. Even if you have been on a cruise a dozen times, the equipment changes from ship to ship. In an emergency, the bright orange makes the wearer highly visible, whether still on board or in the water.

Swimming pool floatation devices are trendy because of the calm water, but they still have size and weight limits that should be followed. Helping the child float along the water while keeping the face above the water instills confidence in the buoyancy of the floats. Children learn proper swimming posture for the crawl without interference from buoyant apparel. Like lifejackets, there are straps to adjust the fit to the wearer. The devices do not substitute for your watchful eye. Shapes and designs on the floats make it easier to pick out your little swimmer within the group.

One of the things that sailors appreciate when wearing an approved inflatable pfd is the extra protection in case a wave washes them overboard. The protective apparel is designed to work with rather than against the working sailor. The ability to do a job even while wearing protective gear makes it more likely to be worn. Reading the stories about and watching videos of swimmers who pit their talents against the strength of the sea brings awareness of the dangers. Trying to stay afloat and swim in situations involving stormy weather, waves, and currents requires a lot of strength and energy.

The wearer can blow air into the PFD if auto-inflation fails. There is approximately twelve additional pounds of buoyancy than that of an adult non-inflatable lifejacket, making it easy to see its value. It is designed to turn unconscious wearers onto their back and hold conscious wearers higher in the water, making it easier to breathe.

Avoid using mildewed devices, as they are unsafe and unreliable. In the unlikely event you fall into the water, knowing you are wearing proper flotation apparel to survive will help you remain calm. It might be awhile before you are rescued, so use energy sensibly. Even when floating at night, safety features like a light make you visible. It only works when it is worn, so put on the right one. It could save your life.




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