Purchasing, using, and maintaining life-saving flotation devices
Each year, water enthusiasts head out to the many lakes and rivers across the country to indulge in water sports and activities. The Saskatoon Fire Department emphasizes the importance of having and maintaining the proper flotation equipment.
Lifejackets and personal flotation devices (PFDs) are extremely important pieces of equipment when in or around bodies of water. Slight variations between the function and purpose of lifejackets and PFDs exist; however, both act as a life-saving flotation device.
Start by selecting the appropriate flotation device for your desired purpose. Be sure that the flotation device has been approved to Canadian standards through Transport Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard, or Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Remember that if the activity you are participating in involves a human- or motor-powered watercraft, you are required by federal law to have an approved lifejacket or PFD for each person on board the craft. Consider whether a lifejacket or PFD best suits the demands of your water activity:
Lifejackets:
- Available in keyhole or vest styles,
- Designed to turn an unconscious person onto their back,
- Always orange, yellow, or red in colour to ensure high visibility, and
- Higher level of flotation than most PFDs.
Personal Flotation Devices:
- Available in a variety of styles and colours,
- Designed to keep a person afloat,
- Specially designed PFDs can be purchased for specific water activities, and
- Typically lighter, less bulky, and more comfortable than lifejackets.
For both lifejackets and PFDs, the fit should be snug while still allowing space to breathe and move freely. The fit is too large if it can be pulled upwards towards the ears, and is too small if it cannot be properly fastened.
In Saskatoon, lifejackets and PFDs are available for purchase at most sports and leisure retailers. Quality and function will influence the price of these flotation devices; however, a standard recreational-use lifejacket or PFD can often be purchased for $40 to $60.
DID YOU KNOW?
Both lifejackets and personal flotation devices will have an interior label stating approval to Canadian standards. The label may also include information relative to proper fit and care.
Never use your flotation device for purposes of which it was not intended for; this could cause damage and wear that will affect the functionality of the flotation device. If the flotation device is expired, altered, ripped, or otherwise misshapen, it is no longer effective and must be replaced.
When finished with your flotation device, make sure it is properly stored in a dry and airy location. Allow ample time for drying if the flotation device is wet.
Cleaning & Care:
- Use a light soap,
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water,
- Air-dry the flotation device in a dry place where it will be out of direct sunlight, and
- Never use a direct heat source to dry your flotation device.
Always exercise safe practices when in or around larger bodies of water.
In an emergency, call 911 immediately.