Talk:Personal flotation device
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My contributions to this article are taken from the node I wrote (of the same name) on Everything2. My homenode is here.
I made some corrections in this update. The previous version was incorrect in stating that survival suits are designated as PFDs by the USCG, and also misclassified type 5 PFDs as inflatables only.
This page lumps together most flotation devices as "lifejackets". As I understand it, this term should only be used when the device in question has been proven to turn an unconscious wearer face-up, plus some other requirements. Most other things, particularly the foam vests used for dinghy sailing, waterskiing, etc, are "bouyancy aids". PeteVerdon 22:39, 21 July 2005 (UTC)
[edit] Sinking lifejackets?
I have heard an urban legend that the "old" lifejackets made of cork or kapok used to lose buoyancy after being immersed in water for a long (many hours?) period of time? Can anyone confirm or deny this? Mieciu K 14:08, 15 June 2006 (UTC)
[edit] Naming?
Recently, I was leading on a camp in Bairnsdale, Victoria, not too far from Melbourne. We went into the canoe, and the leaders in charge stressed that we not tell the kids to put their "life jackets on", but to put their "PFD's on, or their BV's, because apparently they're not allowed to call them "life jackets" anymore, becuase they dont have a 100% chance of saving your life.. They do however have a 100% chance of keeping you floating, or buoyant.. Anyone know about this outside Victoria? --Deon555talkReview 03:23, 13 October 2006 (UTC)
