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Person fishing from a boat in the fog

Behind the Badge - Choosing a Personal Flotation Device

Choosing a Personal Flotation Device

District Game Warden Erik Schmidt

Inflatable personal flotation devices are becoming quite popular right now and for good reason.

They pack easier in boat compartments than more traditional PFDs and generally are more comfortable to wear.

Speaking from personal experience, I’ve been wearing one for years while patrolling from a boat and they are great on those hot summer days when compared to a more traditional style PFD.

That being said, if you are going to use an inflatable PFD, it is important to know what type of PFD (I, II, III or V) you are using and how to operate it.

The most crucial component of an inflatable PFD is the CO2 cartridge.

Any inflatable PFD is useless without a filled CO2 cartridge installed and does not count as a wearable PFD in the boat.

Once properly installed most inflatable PFDs will have a “green” color indicator confirming proper installation and that it is ready for use.

If not properly installed, not installed at all, or it has been previously inflated, most indicators will be “red” in color.

It is also important to know if your inflatable PFD has to be worn in order for it to meet carriage requirements.

Some of the inflatable PFDs manufactured do not meet these requirements if they are not actually worn.

To find this information, you must read the printed label on the PFD or the manual that is initially attached to the product.

Here it will also tell you if your inflatable PFD is a Type I, Type II, Type III or Type V and what types of activities it is suitable for.

Regardless of what type of inflatable PFD you are using, they work the best when worn.

Again, speaking from personal experience, if a person tries to put one on once they and the inflated PFD are in the water, it is next to impossible to put it on.

Personal Flotation Device Types

North Dakota regulations for the number and type of PFDs required on a watercraft can be found in the Boat and Water Safety Guide.

PDF Types
Type Description
A Type 1 PFD A Type I PFD is an approved device designed to turn an unconscious person in the water from a face downward position to a vertical or slightly backward position.
A Type 2 PFD A Type II PFD is an approved device designed to turn an unconscious person in the water from a face downward position to a vertical or slightly backward position.
A Type 3 PFD A Type III PFD is an approved device designed to keep a conscious person in a vertical or slightly backward position.
A Type 4 PFD A Type IV PFD is an approved device designed to be thrown to a person in the water and not worn.
A Type 5 PFD SPECIAL USE PFD or A Type V PFD, to be acceptable, must be used in accordance with its label.

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