Choosing the right type of life jacket can make the difference between life and death. Life jackets must be worn when participating in any type of water sport activity, such as jet skiing, boating and fishing. Life jackets are also referred to as portable flotation devices and close with a zipper or buckle front. Purchase a life jacket from any sporting goods or water sports retail store.
Step 1
Look for the approval symbol from the United States Coast Guard. This means that the life jacket has been reviewed and certified by the organization.
Step 2
Find out the classification of the life jacket. Life jackets will be classified as Type I, II or III. Type I jackets are offshore portable flotation devices, Type II are classified as near-shore buoyancy vests and Type III are calm water flotation aids.
Step 3
Base your life jacket selection on the recreational activities you have planned. If you plan to be far from shore, then buy a Type I. Type II and Type III should be selected if you only will use the jacket while staying close to shore and in calm water. If rescue is delayed, they are not appropriate choices.
Step 4
Decide on any extra features you want for your life jacket. You may consider bright colors for easier visibility in the water. Choose water-resistance life jackets to avoid mold growth. You may also decide to choose a jacket with pockets to protect your hands against the cold.
Step 5
Try on the life jacket. You should wear layers of clothing to gauge how well the life jacket fits while wearing different seasons of clothing. The jacket should fit snug and not move freely while you are in motion.
Tips and Warnings
- When you are picking a life jacket for a child, it should also have a snug fit. The child's head should not be able to slip through the opening.
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