The ABCs of PFDs.

Byline: The Register-Guard

Personal floatation devices approved by the U.S. Coast Guard fall into five broad categories. Once made only of inherently buoyant materials, some types of PFDs are now available in inflatable and hybrid inflatable versions.

TYPE I PFD - The classic "Mae West" style off-shore life jacket provides the most buoyancy. Effective for all waters. Designed to turn most unconscious wearers face-up in the water.

TYPE II PFD - The near-shore buoyancy vest is intended for calm inland waters or where there is a good chance of quick rescue. Inherently buoyant PFDs of this type will turn some unconscious wearers face-up in the water, but the turning is not as pronounced as with Type I. However, a Type II inflatable turns as well as a Type I foam PFD.

TYPE III PFD - These are "floatation aids," good for conscious users in calm, inland waters or where the chance of quick rescue is good. Not for rough waters, as they will not turn a person face-up. Generally the most comfortable type for continuous wear and many PFDs designed for specific sports (such as water-skiing, fly-fishing) are Type IIIs. Some Type III PFDs are designed to inflate automatically when the wearer enters the water; these generally "turn" a person as well as a Type II foam PFD.

TYPE IV PFD - A throwable device such as life rings and buoyant seat cushions. They are not designed to be worn. Type IV PFDs do not count toward fulfilling the one-per-person requirement, but many watercraft are required to have at least one Type IV PFD on board, immediately available for a person overboard. There are no approved inflatable Type IV devices.

TYPE V PFD - These are "special use devices," which are intended for specific activities and which may be carried instead of another PFD only if used according to the approval conditions set forth on the label. A Type V PFD may provide the performance characteristics of a Type I, II or III (as marked on the label). Some Type V devices include deck suits, work vest, wind-surfing vests and hybrids.