Lifejacket

A wearable personal flotation device designed to provide buoyancy and support a person in the water.

Lifejackets are selected by buoyancy, performance level, size, intended water, clothing and activity. Some are designed to turn an unconscious wearer face-up and support the airway; buoyancy aids generally provide less turning performance.

A lifejacket must be correctly fitted, maintained and worn to be effective. Inflatable models require checks of the cylinder, firing head, bladder and oral tube, and added items such as lights, sprayhoods and harnesses must be compatible.