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Life Jackets &
USCG Requirements*

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The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has established five types of life jackets, each designed for specific types of water activities and conditions.

Here's an overview of each type:

  1. Type I: This type of life jacket is designed for use in open, rough, or remote water where rescue may take longer to arrive. It is also known as an offshore life jacket and provides the most buoyancy of all types. Type I life jackets are bulky and often uncomfortable, but they will turn an unconscious person face-up in the water.

  2. Type II: This type of life jacket is designed for use in calm, inland water where rescue is expected to arrive quickly. It is also known as a near-shore buoyancy vest and provides less buoyancy than Type I. Type II life jackets are less bulky and more comfortable, but they will not turn an unconscious person face-up in the water.

  3. Type III: This type of life jacket is designed for use in calm, inland water where rescue is expected to arrive quickly. It is also known as a flotation aid and is often used for water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing. Type III life jackets are comfortable and flexible, but they will not turn an unconscious person face-up in the water.

  4. Type IV: This type of life jacket is designed as a throwable device, such as a ring buoy or a horseshoe buoy, and is used for emergencies such as man-overboard situations. Type IV life jackets do not have to be worn and are not intended to be used as a substitute for wearable life jackets.

  5. Type V: This type of life jacket is designed for specific activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, or water skiing. Type V life jackets are often inflatable and may be more comfortable and less restrictive than other types. However, they must be worn according to the manufacturer's instructions to provide adequate buoyancy.
     

 

It is important to note that while each type of life jacket has its specific uses, it is essential to choose the right type of life jacket for the specific activity and conditions.

 

It is recommended to consult with a water safety expert or the manufacturer to ensure that the life jacket is appropriate and properly fitted.

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has established specific requirements for life jackets to ensure the safety of individuals participating in water-based activities.

 

Here are the USCG requirements for life jackets:

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Type: There are five types of USCG-approved life jackets, designated as Type I, II, III, IV, and V. The type required depends on the activity and the conditions in which it will be used.

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  1. Buoyancy: Each type of life jacket must provide a minimum amount of buoyancy based on the weight of the intended user.

  2. Size: Life jackets must be the appropriate size for the intended user, and must be able to properly fasten and secure.

  3. Condition: Life jackets must be in good condition and free from tears, rips, or other damage that could affect their ability to function properly.

  4. Labeling: All USCG-approved life jackets must be labeled with specific information, including the type, size range, and weight range for which the jacket is designed, as well as instructions for use and care.

  5. Wearable Requirement: Every person on board a vessel must have a USCG-approved wearable life jacket that is the appropriate size for the person and readily accessible. In addition, children under 13 years of age must wear a life jacket at all times while on board a vessel that is underway, unless they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin.

  6. Throwable Requirement: Vessels that are 16 feet or longer are also required to carry at least one USCG-approved throwable flotation device, such as a ring buoy or a horseshoe buoy, that is readily accessible in case of emergency.

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It is important to note that state and local laws may impose additional or different requirements for life jackets, depending on the specific waterway and conditions in which they are used. It is recommended to consult with the appropriate authorities to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.

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​​*Please Note: Aquarius Packrafting Adventures LLC (also referred to as the "Company") does not maintain or guarantee the accuracy of furnished information and in no way guarantee PFD’s, life jackets, or flotation aid will preserve life in all water incidents. The information provided is to be used under best judgment. It's up to the individual to review and seek out updated information, rules, laws, and requirements for Life Jacket safety. Furthermore, by agreeing to the company rental agreement, the customer agrees to hold harmless the information furnished herein. The information listed is subject to change without notice. Adult or Parental supervision of children is the sole responsibility of the customer and in no way, expressed, or implied. The Company does the company recommends children under the age of 18 not participate in this sport due to the physically demanding nature, however we respect the Parents and or guardians’ best judgment. Water sports are inherently dangerous, and the customers make decisions for the safety themself and of their children on their own accord. All pack raft rentals are generally under 16 feet in total length.

Additional Safety Information & Warning

Packrafting can be dangerous and physically demanding. The user or purchaser of our rental equipment should understand that participating in packrafting might involve serious injury or death. You are responsible for your own actions and decisions. The individual paddler is responsible for deciding whether it is safe to float in or across a body of water or float down a river.

 

The individual paddler is responsible for the safe and appropriate use of accessory equipment. A punctured tube will result in immediate immersion in the water, and you must be prepared to deal with the resulting danger. Familiarize yourself with the boat's capabilities and limitations. Due to the wide variability of water conditions and obstacles, Aquarius Packrafting Adventures LLC makes no claim as to the raft's sustainability for or durability against specific bodies of water and physical obstacles.

 

The following safety standards are recognized by the National Paddling Sports Association, and we recommend all users of our products adhere to these standards.

  1. Get paddle sports instructions for this type of watercraft.

  2. Obtain certified first aid training and carry first aid and result/safety equipment.

  3. Always wear a nationally approved personal flotation device

  4. Always wear a helmet where appropriate

  5. Dress appropriately for weather conditions; cold water and/or cold weather can result in hypothermia.

  6. Check your equipment prior to each use for signs of wear or failure.

  7. Never paddle alone.

  8. Do not paddle in flooded conditions.

  9. Be aware of appropriate river levels, tidal changes, dangerous currents, and weather changes. 

  10. Scout unfamiliar waters; portage where appropriate.

  11. Do not exceed your paddling ability; be honest with yourself.

  12. Consult a physician prior to your paddling sports training.

  13. You must not use alcohol or mind-altering drugs prior to using this product.

  14. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for use of this product.

  15. If additional outfitting is added to this craft, use manufacture's approved materials only; do not impair entry or exit access.

  16. Read owners information package prior to using this product.

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The user of our products and accessories acknowledges both an understanding and assumption of the risk involved in paddle sports. 

Aquarius Packrafting Adventures LLC has no way to screen the experience, judgement, or ability of the renter.  

Safety Warning

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