Everyone who goes boating should have a personal flotation device, often called a lifejacket.  Your PFD should fit you and the type of boating you do.  It should be easy to put on and comfortable to wear.  Buy one that you will wear and then wear it!  The best PFD won't work if you don't have it on.  Remember, a PFD can be the only thing between you and drowning.

Type I PFD  - The "off shore" jacket is for all waters, but is used mostly for boats going far off shore where rescue may be delayed.  This type of PFD is required on commercial ships.

Type II PFD  - The "near shore" vest is for use in protected water where fast rescue is likely.

Type III PFD  - This type of PFD is a popular style for people engaged in active water sports.  Unlike the first two types of PFDs, however, it has no ability to keep an unconscious person's face out of the water.

Type IV PFD - Throwable Devices  - These devices are thrown to persons already in the water, so that they may be grasped while waiting for rescue.  Examples are rings or cushions with straps.  In the U.S., these are required equipment on every boat 16 feet or more in length.

Children's Lifejackets  - Make sure these PFDs are the correct size for the child.  To check, put the PFD on the child, then attempt to lift the child by the jacket shoulders.  If the jacket comes up 3 inches or more before it lifts the child, then it is too big.  A child's PFD should also have a crotch strap, lifting ring and a flotation collar.