PFD’s (Personal Floatation Devices, or commonly known as life vests) are the single most important piece of safety gear when fishing from a kayak. They come in styles ranging from the old school bright orange over the neck life vest that can cost as little as $10.00 to automatically inflatable PFD’s that have Co2 cartridges that fill the small vest with air when placed in water.
How To Choose a PFD
The 2 most important factors when choosing a PFD is fit and comfort. It is important that a PFD fits well, to provide the best possible floatation in case it is needed. Comfort is a close second in importance because if a PFD is not comfortable it will not be worn when needed.
PFD’s While on the Water
In most areas, a PFD is not required to be worn by adults at all times, they are just required to be on the vessel. The safest possible place to keep a PFD while on the water is to wear it! If the PFD is not worn at all times, it is recommended to be in arms reach and easily accessible.
Stowing a PFD in a compartment of the Kayak is not recommended. Most times that a PFD is needed, there is no time to dig through the compartment to find it. Keep the PFD where it can be grabbed quickly and nothing is stowed on top of it.
Get used to putting the PFD on quickly. It is important to know how the PFD you own fits and works. This could save your life!
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