Life Jackets or Personal Floatation Devices (PFD)
Most centres and guides will insist on canoeists wearing a PFD at all times – and for insurance purposes you may find yourself being asked to leave many river sites if you don not. While this is a legal requirement it’s a wise thing to wear a PFD when you are paddling, because you never know what might occur on the water. Unlike the old cork filled life jackets that were often uncomfortable and difficult to move in, there are so many different life jackets out there now that by shopping around you will certainly find one that suits your needs and is comfortable at the same time. Many PFD’s have compartments which ensure that if one area of the jacket is broached, the others will maintain flotation. Other jackets have elasticated areas that ensure a snug fit.
At first you will be able to borrow a PFD from your guide or training centre but when you come to purchase your own, there are a few things to bear in mind:
Before choosing a jacket
1. Try on the life jacket before you buy it
2. Make sure that the life jacket isn’t too tight because it will become uncomfortable and you will feel you need to take it off while paddling energetically
3. On the other hand, ensure the life jacket is not too loose or it will not serve to purpose of keeping you afloat
4. Once purchased, let your life jacket dry before storing, to prevent mould development.
5. Keep a spare life jacket or other floatation device in your canoe, just in case
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