Hybrid Personal Flotation Devices

• Hybrid PFDs are as effective as standard PFDs and less bulky. Chaos/Photodisc/Getty Images

  A personal flotation device, or PFD, is used with boating or other water activities as a potentially life saving device. PFDs can come in the form of a vest, ring buoy or cushion. According to the State of California website, 85 percent of boating-related drowning victims would have survived with the use of a PFD. PFDs are tested for their buoyancy and performance in the water.

PFD Types

• A typical PFD is buoyant because its chamber is filled with air. Type I is an offshore life jacket. This device is the most buoyant of all PFDs and is safe in all waters, typically turning even an unconscious wearer face-up in the water. Type II is a near-short buoyancy vest. This device is designed for wearing in calm waters and will sometimes turn an unconscious person face-up. Type III is a flotation aid used in calm waters. A Type III PFD has the same buoyancy as type II, but wearers must turn themselves face-up. Type III is generally the most comfortable for extended wear. Type IV is a throwable device, meant for calm waters where emergency assistance is nearby. Type IV is not worn, but is thrown to a person in distress.

Type V Hybrids

• Type V PFDs are known as special-use devices. Within this category are hybrid inflatable personal flotation devices. The hybrid has an inherent quality of slight buoyancy and it is coupled with an inflatable chamber. A layer of closed cell foam built into the device provides the buoyancy. The hybrid is less bulky than other types of PFDs. When inflated, it performs as well as a type I, II or III personal flotation device. The hybrid requires very little maintenance and it is solidly built.

Regulations for Hybrids

• The United States Coast Guard assigns specific instructions that must accompany each hybrid PFD and that state which types of PFDs the hybrid can substitute. Most hybrids can replace type I, II and III personal flotation devices, and this must be clearly indicated when the hybrid is sold. The Coast Guard also regulates how many hybrids or other approved personal flotation devices are required for each size of vessel. The PFDs on board must be U.S. Coast Guard approved, be in good condition, of appropriate size and be easy to access.