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Types of Personal Flotation Device (PFD) For Alaska Boating Trips

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For any kind of boating trip you're taking, whether it's for fishing, wildlife spotting or simple sport, proper personal flotation devices (PFDs) for every person aboard the vessel are a vital consideration. These are a legal requirement in every state in the US, for starters, and are also an important safety concept that all boaters should be cognizant of, whether you're a driver or passenger.

At Pybus Point Lodge, PFDs are a standard part of all our Alaska boating excursions, whether you're riding with us for a saltwater fishing trip, a wildlife tour or any other purpose. We provide all required PFDs for our boating passengers, ensuring no one is ever without protection. What are some of the different types of PFDs out there, and which will be prudent for your ride type? Here's a primer.

Off-Shore Life Jacket (Type I)

The Type I PFD is designed for offshore, rough seas and remote waters, where rescue may be slow in coming and the chance of hypothermia is high even in summer temperatures. It also comes equipped with a whistle, for use in signaling rescuers. This type requires at least 22 pounds of buoyancy to support the weight of anyone trapped in water.

Near-Shore Vest (Type II)

This type has a slightly lower requirement for buoyancy of 15.5 pounds, and is meant for nearshore boating excursions. It's less bulky than Type I, so it's more comfortable to wear over prolonged periods of time. It is approved for use in milder climates.

This type is not intended for rough or offshore waters. This is because while it will turn some unconscious wearers face-up in the water, it's not designed to keep anyone afloat in truly rough seas and can actually be a danger in such conditions.

Flotation Aid (Type III)

Commonly used for wakeboarders, water skiers, surfers and others, this PFD is basically a vest designed to be worn over the head and not fastened around the waist. It's intended for moderate conditions, and can also be fitted with safety harnesses and tethers for wakeboarders and others who need to attach their bodies to objects during use.

The minimum buoyancy required here is 15.5, the same as Type II devices. Flotation Aids are not meant to turn an unconscious wearer face-up; you'd need to be conscious for that.

Throwable Device (Type IV)

This type of PFD is meant to be held rather than worn. If a boater falls overboard and is in danger of drowning, the person can throw the device to them and hopefully it'll support them long enough for rescue to arrive or until they can swim back to their vessel.

This type has a buoyancy requirement of 16.5 pounds or higher in most cases.

Special-Use Device (Type V)

Finally, there are certain special-use PFDs that use inflation, such as rafting vests, deck suits and special number of other special-use applications that don't fit into the above classifications.

Don't worry about type selection for any Alaskan adventure at Pybus Point Lodge -- we have all our vessels and passengers properly outfitted for any trip they're taking. For more on this, or to learn about any of our all-inclusive fishing trips or Alaska all-inclusive vacations, speak to our team today.

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