BOATsmart! Base de connaissances du Canada
Module 02 - Boating Rules, Regulations and Equipment
Making the Right Choice
When choosing a lifejacket or PFD, you should consider the following:
- Check the label or stamp to confirm the flotation device is Canadian-approved
- Choose one that suits the type of boating activities you will be doing. Will you be wakeboarding? Operating a PWC? Fishing?
- Verify that the lifejacket or PFD is appropriate for your size and weight (if a boater falls overboard when wearing a PFD that is too small, it may not support the weight of that person)
- Check that it fits snugly but allows for freedom of movement
- If purchasing a lifejacket or PFD for another person, ensure that it will fit that person
If you are in a smaller, open boat (such as a small fishing boat), other boaters may find it difficult to see you. Choosing a brightly-coloured flotation device will help to make you more visible to others.
