It's the Law: Required Equipment

• PFD Requirements
• Types of PFDs

When preparing to go out on a vessel, the operator (and/or vessel owner who gives permission to operate the vessel) must check that the legally required equipment is on board. (66-12-7 NMSA 1978; BAR 18.7.2 NMAC 9)

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
(66-12-7 NMSA 1978; BAR 18.17.2 NMAC 9.A)

• All vessels must carry at least one USCG–approved Type I, II, III, or V life jacket (PFD) for each person on board. If the USCG label requires it to be worn to be counted as having a PFD on board, then it must be worn.
• In addition to the requirement for life jackets, all vessels, including PWCs, must carry at least one USCG–approved Type IV (throwable) PFD.
• Children 12 years old and younger must wear a Type I, II, or III USCG–approved PFD while underway, unless they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin.
• Each person on board a PWC, kayak, canoe, or rubber raft must wear a USCG–approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD.
• Each person being towed behind a vessel—on skis or any floating object—must wear a USCG–approved Type I, II, or III PFD.
• Besides being USCG–approved, all life jackets and other 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)

PFD Descriptions	Illustrations
TYPE I: Offshore Life Jackets These vests are geared for rough or remote waters where rescue may take awhile. They provide the most buoyancy, are excellent for flotation, and will turn most unconscious persons face up in the water.
TYPE II: Near-Shore Vests These vests are good for calm waters when quick rescue is likely. A Type II may not turn some unconscious wearers face up in the water.
TYPE III: Flotation Aids These vests or full-sleeved jackets are good for calm waters when quick rescue is likely. They are not recommended for rough waters since they will not turn most unconscious persons face up.
TYPE IV: Throwable Devices These cushions and ring buoys are designed to be thrown to someone in trouble. Since a Type IV is not designed to be worn, it is neither for rough waters nor for persons who are unable to hold onto it.
TYPE V: Special–Use Devices These vests, deck suits, hybrid PFDs, and others are designed for specific activities such as windsurfing, kayaking, or water-skiing. To be acceptable, Type V PFDs must be used in accordance with their label.