Choosing the right safety gear on the water

(NC) After a long winter, most of us look forward to warmer weather so we can spend more time outdoors in parks, lakes, and beaches. But more folks out on the water means more frequent boating incidents.

According to the Lifesaving Society, 85 per cent of boating drowning victims weren’t wearing a floatation device even though most had them on their boat. Fortunately, you can keep yourself safe by picking flotation devices you and your family find comfortable and will wear.

Your first big decision is what type of safety equipment to bring. Here are some tips for picking the device that’s right for you, from Transport Canada’s Boating Office:

Lifejackets
These offer the best flotation and visibility: they only come in red, orange and yellow. They’re designed to turn you on your back automatically when you’re in the water, so they can keep you breathing even if you’re unconscious, Lifejackets are generally designed to be put on in an emergency, because they can restrict your ability to move and might be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time. It’s important to keep them as accessible as possible.

Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs)
PFDs are by far the most popular option with recreational boaters: they’re affordable and widely available. They come in a wide range of colours and are lighter, less bulky and give you greater range of movement than a lifejacket, so you can wear them longer. Although they will keep you afloat, PFDs do not generally turn you face-up in the water. If you boat during spring, fall or in cold water (15 C or below), consider a PFD with good thermal protection, like a floatation coat or floater suit.

Inflatables
Inflatable PFDs are even more comfortable and easy to move in, but they must always be worn when on deck or in an open boat to be considered an approved piece of safety equipment. You also have to be at least 16 years old to use them. Not all models inflate automatically, and even those that do might inflate too slowly if you need help or are a weak swimmer. Every inflatable PFD has a backup tube to inflate it with your mouth, but if you’re struggling to stay afloat, using that tube could be difficult. These devices must also be regularly maintained according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Selecting the lightest or least bulky device to wear can be tempting, but don’t lose sight of what you’re buying it for—safety. Making a smart choice before you leave the dock might mean the difference between life and death out on the water.

Learn more about safe boating at canada.ca/boatingsafety.