Citation

Buck P. Int. J. Aquatic Res. Educ. 2018; 11(2): e1.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Bowling Green State University)

DOI

10.25035/ijare.11.02.01

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

No matter what the watersport or water-based activity, it is important that an appropriate lifejacket or Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is worn. It is also important that an individual understands why they are wearing one, what it does, how it operates, how to maintain it and why it is next to useless if it is just lying in the bottom of the boat. This hands-on workshop addressed the definitions and roles of flotation devices, sizing and fitting, deployment and use in the water, while giving participants in-water opportunities to experience different PFDs and lifesaving apparatuses in the water.

Water users frequently cite a number of reasons for not wearing PFDs (e.g., "I have one close by;" "I don't need one because I am a good swimmer;" "It's too hot and cumbersome and gets in the way;" "I'm okay. Nothing is going to happen to me."). Obviously, the only guarantee of being safe is to wear a properly-fitted lifejacket or PFD when in, on, or around water. Terminology and definitions distinguishing between lifejackets, PFDs, and buoyancy aids often confuses people. It is generally accepted that both lifejackets and buoyancy aids fall under the PFD category. A lifejacket is designed as a life saving device which fully supports a person in the water while protecting the airway by turning the face up. By contrast, a buoyancy aid simply assists a person to float in the water either as part of instructional practices or in an emergency, but it is not a recognized or approved life saving device. Finally, a personal flotation device (PFD) often is synonymous with lifejacket, but due to its definition changes between countries, institutions, and even within organisations, a great deal of confusion exists...

Language: en