Inflatable PFDs
Inflatable PFDs provide buoyancy when their chambers are inflated. This happens when air or gas (usually CO2 from a cylinder) is discharged into the chamber or when the PFD is inflated by mouth.
Inflatable PFDs are available in three styles.
Manual (vest or suspender type)
Can be inflated manually by using a CO2 system or by mouth.
![Manual inflatable PFD Manual inflatable PFD](https://ke-courses-production.s3.amazonaws.com/asset_files/production/2162/attachments/original/pfd_inflatable_manual.jpg?1551796316)
Manual (pouch type)
Can be inflated by mouth or by pulling the ripcord or toggle that activates a CO2 gas inflation system.
![Manual inflatable pouch PFD Manual inflatable pouch PFD](https://ke-courses-production.s3.amazonaws.com/asset_files/production/2163/attachments/original/pfd_inflatable_manual_pouch.jpg?1551796317)
Automatic (jacket type only)
Automatically inflates when immersed in water. This type also may be inflated manually by pulling a toggle or ripcord. It is not permitted for sailboarding or white-water activities or for persons on PWCs because frequent immersions will cause premature inflation.
![Automatic inflatable PFD Automatic inflatable PFD](https://ke-courses-production.s3.amazonaws.com/asset_files/production/2164/attachments/original/CN-pfd-inflatable.jpg?1551796317)