When we used to talk about personal flotation devices, most people tend to think of life jackets or What is The Main Advantage of a Type iv PFD? | Type IV Life Jacket. However, there are several other types of personal flotation devices available, one of which is the 4 PFD type.
I am sure that most people may not be aware of the benefits of such PFDs, others may ask what is the main advantage of a type iv PFD and whether they really need it. Below we discuss some of these benefits, as well as other Coast Guard rules regarding the use of such PFDs. But first, what exactly is Type IV PFD?
What is Type 4 PFD?
Type IV PFD is very different from all other types of PFDs used by boaters and water sports enthusiasts. First, the Type IV PFD is not designed to be worn by a person, unlike life jackets. Instead, it is a disposable device designed to be thrown into the water. The person in the water will grab and hold the Type IV PFD to sit while waiting for rescue.
That said, there are some restrictions on the use of type IV PFD. For one thing, it is highly recommended to use it when boating in water where there are many water disturbances such as waves and currents or strong winds. This is because such substances, especially waves, will cause the IV PFD type to be thrown into the water and float away from the person in the water.
Also, Type IV PFDs should not be thrown at people who are unconscious and do not swim in the water. Depending on their situation, they would not be able to catch the PFD, thus making it useless. However, it is wise to make a mistake on the safe side and be one on board with other life jackets and life vests.
Coasters actually need larger ships and boats to carry them when sailing. Although the requirements for Coastal Boats less than 16 meters may imply that a Type IV PFD is required, it is still recommended that such boats should carry as they can be used to assist people in the past, even if they are wearing life jackets and life items.
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Types of type IV PFD
There are three types of type IV PFD. Some companies sell other types of IV PFDs, but what we have here are the most common ones and those that are approved for use by the Coast Guard.
Buoyant Cushions.
These cushions are square and have no holes. A distinctive feature of a flaming cookie is that it has two straps where the person in the boat can simply put his arms around it so that the wire can float. However, you do not really need to put your arms around the ropes. You can just put the PFD under your chest and float above it. You can also use your legs to paddle and push in the water.
Buoys ring.
The ring buoys are the Type IV PFDs you see on most boats. It can be seen in many boats, harbors, and even pools. The current models of Type IV PFDs are equipped with activated headlights. This is very helpful during night rescue.
Horseshoe Buoys.
As the name implies, this flotation device is shaped like a horse. This is usually done with a plastic cell backbone, hidden by a vinyl cover. Available in a variety of colors, but white, yellow as well, and red are the most popular as they are easy to spot.
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Benefits or Advantages of type IV PFD
Some may doubt the need for a type of IV PFD in which everyone on board is wearing a life jacket or life vest. However, it should be noted that type IV PFD is very different from other types of personal flotation devices. Below are some of the benefits of type IV PFD.
Location Marker
Another advantage of type IV PFD is that it can also be used as a local symbol. People on the boat can immediately send a Type IV PFD following the ‘Man Overboard’ situation by throwing them at the exact spot or last known spot where the victim fell or was last seen. The marker can be used to help the boatman as he or she moves around and back to the scene to begin the rescue.
There is a problem with Type IV PFDs being flooded by current, however, which can occur in open water. This is especially true if strong currents or waves are present. However, Type IV PFDs may still be useful in such cases.
For example, it would help the boat operator to determine the current direction. And if the victim was wearing a life jacket or other wearable PFDs. Then he or she may also have been washed straight to the current delivery. This will help to at least reduce the search area as opposed to randomly checking areas around the first place where a person has crossed.
No Size Limits
One of the main advantages of the Type IV PFD is that it has no size limitations unlike life jackets and other types of PFDs. That said, everyone, regardless of age, height, and weight will be able to use Type IV PFDs in times of need.
This also means that the PFD does not have a special design, unlike women’s health jackets are design to embrace a woman’s body shape. The lack of size limitations is mainly due to the fact that Type IV of the PFD is not designed to be worn but instead serves as a floating device that users hold or hold while using it.
However, it should be noted that having an IV PFD. (which can be used by anyone) on your boat does not mean that you can ignore having the right life jackets. Even if you have multiple Type IV PFDs on your boat, you still need to have life jackets for all your passengers.
This means that you should have jackets for children and adults, even baby jackets in case you travel with someone else. And if you have a dog on board, you may want to bring a dog life jacket too. Remember, Type IV PFDs should be used as a backup on wearable PFDs and health jackets.
It is portable and light
Many sailors complain about wearing certain types of PFDs because they tend to be larger and less comfortable to wear. And because of the extra weight, the wearer will need to make an extra effort to keep his or her head up in the water.
The type of IV PFDs, on the other hand, is very simple and will not cripple you in water. It is designed to give the user a better ride because you are free to hold it as you wish.
Easy to use
This is because the type IV PFD is removable, not wearable.
Emergencies require that you act as quickly as possible. Unlike other PFDs that will need to be worn and fitted before use. Type IV PFD can be easily thrown to anyone in the water.
Determines the current direction of the water
In open water, strong turbulence and water currents. It will cause the PFD to be tossed and floated away from the person in the water. Making it less effective as a landmark or a floating tool in such situations.
But there is still another purpose: to help the boat operator determine the direction of the current.
If the victim was wearing a life jacket, it would be easy to trace the victim’s whereabouts. This is an important step in any rescue operation because it effectively reduces the search area for rescuers.
This will help reduce the search area. Where a person who has fallen into the sea was wearing a life jacket – it is easier to track
