IMPORTANT INFORMATION
ABOUT CHILDREN’S PFDs
WARNING!
To reduce the risk of drowning, read and follow the information
1
in this tag,
2
in the label on your Personal Flotation Device (PFD),
3
in the “Think Safe” pamphlet.
Select the Right PFD for your Child!
When choosing a PFD for your child, understand that different types of PFDs have various
strengths and limitations, including:
TYPE
USE CONDITIONS
TYPE I
PFDs
TYPE II
PFDs
TYPE III
PFDs
TYPE V
PFDs
*Hybrid devices may combine improved comfort with enhanced in-water performance
A “face-up” position is one where the child is floating calmly on his/her back with arms and
legs in the water and head back, with face out of the water (see the other side of this tag for
more information about teaching your child to float safely in water). The ability of a PFD to
turn a child “face-up” is affected by:
• your child’s height and weight distribution,
•
the type of PFD you select,
•
the ability of your child to remain calm in the water, and
•
the ability of your conscious child to turn himself/herself face-up.
Select a PFD that fits your child based on his/her weight, and any other sizing on the PFD,
such as chest size. Make sure your child’s weight is with in the range marked on the PFD.
The PFD Should fit snugly, but not too tightly. Do not buy a PFD that your child will “grow
into.”
Have your child try on the PFD and test its fit by lifting the child up by the shoulders of the
PFD — the PFD is too large if it slips up over the child’s chin or ears. Always use leg straps,
if provided, to keep the PFD securely in place.
Make sure your child’s PFD fits properly!
PFD SIZE
WEIGHT RANGE
APPROXIMATE CHEST SIZE
Youth
50 to 90 lbs. (23 to 41 kg)
26” - 29” (66 - 74 cm)
Child
30 to 50 lbs. (14 to 23 kg)
20” - 25” (51 - 64 cm)
Infant
Less than 30 lbs. (14 kg)
16” - 20” (41 - 51 cm)
FIT
S-S-005108
Unless a hybrid*, more bulky
and less comfortable than
either Type II or Type III PFDs.
Type I PFDs have the greatest ability to
turn a child “face-up”.
Typically comfortable, but
more bulky than Type III PFDs.
Type II PFDs will turn only some children
to a “ face-up” position.
Type III PFDs are NOT designed to turn a
child “face-up” in the water. They provide
good support to children with some
swimming skills.
Examples are Type V swimwear PFDs
with Type III performance that provide
enhanced wearability.
Least bulky and most comfortable
for continuous wear.
May be a substitute for a Type I, II
or III (as marked on PFD Label).
