Personal Flotation Devices
  • Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)must be Coast Guard approved, in good and serviceable condition, and of appropriate size for the intended user.  Wearable PFDs must be readily accessable and available for immediate donning in an emergency.  The should not be stowed in plastic bags, in locked or closed compartments, or have other gear stowed on top of them. Throwable devices must be immediately available for use.  Though not required, boaters are encouraged to weat a PFD when the vessel is underway.

  • All recreational boats must carry one Type I, II, III or V (wearable) for each person on board.  Type V PFDs to be counted must be used according to their lable requirements.  Any boat 16 feet or over (except canoes and kayaks) must also carry one Type IV ( throwable) PFD.

  • A water skier is considered on board the vessel and a PFD is required for the purposes of compliance.  A PFD designed to withstand the impact of hitting the water at high speed is recommended for skiers and PWC riders.