It's the Law: Equipment for Your Vessel

When preparing to go out on a vessel, first check that the legally required equipment is on board.

Life Jackets—Also Known as Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

• All recreational vessels must have at least one Type I, II, III, or V personal flotation device (life jacket) that is U.S. Coast Guard–approved, and of the proper size for each person on board.
• In addition to the above requirements, vessels 16 feet in length or longer must have one Type IV (throwable) USCG–approved personal flotation device on board and immediately available.

• Children under 6 years of age must wear a USCG–approved Type I, II, or III PFD at all times while underway on any vessel less than 26 feet in length within Florida waters. (“Underway” means any time except when the vessel is anchored, moored, docked, or aground.)
• Vessels operating on waters outside the geographical boundaries of Florida (3 miles or the edge of the Gulf Stream, whichever is greater, off the Atlantic coast or 9 miles off the Gulf of Mexico Coast) are subject to the new federal PFD regulation for children. On these waters each child under 13 years of age on a recreational vessel that is underway must wear an appropriate USCG–approved PFD unless the child is below decks or in an enclosed cabin.
• Each person on board a personal watercraft (PWC), and anyone being towed behind a vessel, must wear a USCG–approved PFD. Inflatable PFDs are not to be worn on PWCs or while water-skiing.
• Besides being labeled “U.S. Coast Guard approved,” all PFDs must be:
  • In good and serviceable condition.
  • Readily accessible, which means you are able to put the PFD on quickly in an emergency.
  • Of the proper size for the intended wearer. Sizing for PFDs is based on body weight and chest size

Types of Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Pictures of PFDs	Descriptions of PFDs
	TYPE I: Offshore Life Jacket These vests are geared for rough or remote waters where rescue may take awhile. They are excellent for flotation and will turn most unconscious persons face up in the water.
	TYPE II: Near-Shore Vest These vests are good for calm waters and fast rescues. Type II vests may lack the capacity to turn unconscious wearers face up.
	TYPE III: Flotation Aid These vests or full-sleeved jackets are good for calm waters and fast rescues. They are not for rough waters since they may not turn a person face up.
	TYPE IV: Throwable Device These cushions or ring buoys are designed to be thrown to someone in trouble. They are not for long hours in rough waters, non-swimmers, or the unconscious.
	TYPE V: Special Use Device These windsurfing vests, deck suits, hybrid PFDs, and others are designed for specific activities, such as kayaking, white water rafting, or water-skiing. To be acceptable, Type V PFDs must be used in accordance with their label.