Lifejacket and PFD (Personal Flotation Device) requirements are subject to both Federal and State Law, except in the case of “racing shells, rowing sculls, and racing kayaks.” In 1993 the USCG exempted these boats from federal lifejacket and PFD requirements and pre-empted state authority to impose any requirements, putting it in conflict with a growing number of state laws.
Test your knowledge of Federal/State guidance on PFDs.*
These are cross sections of a dory (black), canoe (blue), kayak (green), racing shell (red).
Note: the cross sections shown here are drawn to the best of the author’s ability from the following boats: 1] A Lowell Surf Dory (68″ beam); B] A vintage wooden canoe (33″ beam); C] a whitewater kayak (26″ beam); D] An Edwin Phelps racing shell (11.5″ beam). They are drawn approximately to scale.
QUIZ: MATCH THE PREVAILING RULE WITH THE CORRECT BOAT
THE CORRECT ANSWERS ARE:
1A; In a virtually unsinkable boat, cedar planked on oak, built for the North Atlantic, always wear a life jacket
2B; In an open canoe, stable in whitecaps and moderate winds, life jackets should be carried
3C; In a covered kayak, capable of moderate waves and winds, always wear a life jacket
4D; In an inherently unstable boat designed only for calm, sheltered waters, never wear a life jacket regardless of conditions.
Does this make sense to you?
*Admittedly, we have taken some liberties in oversimplifying state and federal regulations. Using New York State as an example, where PFD’s must be worn on small boats between November 1 and May 1 due to the recognized dangers of cold water, this is basically true.
© 2021 RowSafeUSA.Org