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US Coast Guard Laws and Type Ratings for Life Jackets

1. Type I PFD - Off-Shore Life Jacket
* Foam = 22 lbs. of flotation
* Commercial style, reversible, easy to put on
* Provides the most buoyancy
* Effective for all waters - especially where rescue may be delayed
* Designed to turn most unconscious wearers to a face-up position in the water

2. Type II PFD - Near-Shore Buoyancy Vest
* Foam = 15.5 lbs. of flotation
* Inflatable = 33.5 lbs. of flotation
* Intended for calm, inland water or where a quick rescue is possible
* Will turn some unconscious wearers to a face-up position in the water (turning is not as definite as with a Type I PFD)

3. Type III PFD - Flotation Aid
* Foam = 15.5 lbs. of flotation
* Inflatable = 22.5 lbs. of flotation
* Both lightweight and comfortable
* Good for conscious wearers in calm, inland water or where a quick rescue is possible
* Designed so wearers can place themselves into a face-up position in the water (wearer may have to tilt head back to avoid flipping over)
* Type III foam vest offers same minimum buoyancy as Type II PFD
* Type III foam vest comes in many colors and sizes and is most comfortable for continuous wear

4. Type IV PFD - Throwable Device
* 16 to 20 lbs. of floatation
* Intended for calm, inland water with heavy boat traffic wear rescue is always possible
* Designed to be thrown to a conscious person in the water to be held by user until rescued
* Not to be worn
* Type IV devices include buoyant cushions, ring buoys and horseshoe buoys
* Should be used in conjunction with a wearable life jacket

5. Type V PFD - Special Use Device
* Intended for specific activities
* Should only be used in accordance with the approval condition(s) on its label