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Did You Know?

Evidence shows that too many people are not wearing PFDs. Statistics, compiled by the Canadian Red Cross and the Lifesaving Society show that over 85% of drowning victims were not wearing a flotation device.

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If you enjoy boating-related activities, you probably know that the law requires Canadian pleasure craft to carry a personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board, and that the Coast Guard recommends wearing your PFD whenever you are on the water. What is not so well known is the extent to which a PFD's safety value depends on proper choice, care and storage.

The following guide tells all you need to know to keep your PFDs in working condition, and includes replacement tips.

Care and Maintenance

There are many things you can do to ensure PFDs remain in good shape. First of all, do not alter them in any way. Second, use them only for their intended purpose; they should not double as seat cushions, kneeling pads or boat fenders.

Avoid leaving PFDs in the sun for long periods (sunlight may fade colours and weaken fabrics). When drying, do not use direct heat of any kind (it can damage the flotation material.) Rather, hang PFDs on plastic hangers in a ventilated spot - in the shade if outdoors.

To clean them, hand wash in warm water using a mild laundry detergent. Paul Higginbotham, Director of Research and Development at the Mustang Survival Corporation, offers this tip for removal of stubborn stains: Scrub lightly with a soft nailbrush and detergent. Rinse carefully but thoroughly, then hang to dry.

In the interest of safety, thoroughly check the condition of PFDs on a regular basis. Examine them closely for rips, tears and holes, as well as damage to seams, zippers, buckles and straps. Look for signs of waterlogging, mildew, and shrinkage or hardening of the buoyant materials.

Last, but not least, check that the fit and flotation performance are still adequate. (See Testing section for buoyancy test.)

Replacement

If a PFD is in undesirable condition or a young family member has outgrown theirs, follow these tips to make a wise replacement choice:

• Select a style based on product information as well as type of water activity planned. Sizing and other information is printed on the inside of the product, and a brochure is usually attached.

• Ensure a snug but comfortable fit. (Some manufacturers offer sizing up to XXXL, which accommodates a 54-58" chest.)

• Consider the need for visibility in the water. Bright colours are recommended.

• Look for government-approved products. Jean-Philippe Croteau of the Office of Boating Safety (OBS) stresses that Canadians must use PFDs that are approved by the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG), Transport Canada (DOT) or the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFS). It's the law. (Note: Approval becomes void if the product is not maintained in serviceable condition.)

Don't forget to label the new PFD with the name of the person who will be wearing it.

Testing

As soon as possible after purchase, try out the PFD in shallow water to
prepare for an emergency. At chest depth in a lake or swimming pool, raise your legs and put your head back. Your chin should be above water and breathing should be easy.

It is particularly important for children to become comfortable wearing a
PFD in the water, since their body weight distribution makes them more
likely to float face-down - especially if they panic.

Storage

Whether you are putting away PFDs for a few days or an extended period, it is important to follow proper storage procedures:

• Ensure they are totally dry before storing.

• Keep them in a moisture-free, well-ventilated environment - preferably in a hanging position. Avoid plastic bags.

• If stowing them in your boat or a container of some sort, do not bend them or place heavy objects on top that might crush them.

• Be cautious about container storage - such as plastic totes or marine storage boxes - since mildew can thrive in dark, enclosed spaces if everything is not completely dry.

In the words of Paul Higginbotham, "Treat PFDs like your own clothes, and they should last a long time."

Related Links

The Office of Boating Safety, Government of Canada - What you need to know about boating regulations in Canada.

The Life Jacket Store - Life jackets, life jackets and more life jackets.

Lisa Petsche is a writer living in Stoney Creek, Ontario. Her freelance credits include The Cottage Magazine, Georgian Bay Today, The Muskokan, Lake Ontario Sailor, Canadian Living, Today's Parent and The Hamilton Spectator.  Lisa a boater and waterfront cottage owner with three young children.

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TLC for PFDs, first published May, 2000. Designed & maintained by Outdoor Nova Scotia, Liverpool, N.S. BOT 1KO Material protected by copyright. Last revised: May 14, 2000