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VIII. WEAR YOUR PFD
In approximately 80 percent of all boating fatalities, the victims
were not wearing a PFD. Most fatal accidents happen on calm
sunny days. This inflatable PFD is much more comfortable to wear
than other PFD types. Get into the habit of wearing this PFD.
Non-swimmers and children especially should wear a hybrid or
non-inflatable PFD at all times when on or near the water.
IX. HYPOTHERMIA
Prolonged exposure to cold water causes a condition known as
hypothermia — a substantial loss of body heat, which leads to
exhaustion and unconsciousness. Most drowning victims first
suffer from hypothermia. The following chart shows the effects of
hypothermia:
HOW HYPOTHERMI A AFFECTS MOST ADULTS
Water Temperature
°C °(F)
Exhaustion or
Unconsciousness
Expected Time
of Survival
0.3
0.3 TO 4.4
4.4 TO 10
10 TO 15.6
15.6 TO 21.1
21.1 TO 26.7
Over 26.7
(32.5)
(32.5 to 40)
(40 to 50)
(50 to 60)
(60 to 70)
(70 to 80)
(Over 80)
UNDER 15 MIN
15 TO 30 MIN
30 TO 60 MIN
1 TO 2 HOURS
2 TO 7 HOURS
2 TO 12 HOURS
INDEFINITE
< 15 TO 45 MIN
30 TO 90 MIN
1 TO 3 HOURS
1 TO 6 HOURS
2 TO 40 HOURS
3 HOURS TO INDEFINITE
INDEFINITE
PFDs can increase survival time because they allow you to float
without using energy treading water and because of their
insulating properties. Naturally, the warmer the water, the less
insulation you will require. When operating in cold waters [below
60°F (15.6 °C)] you should consider using a coat or jacket style
PFD or a Type V Thermal Protective PFD as they cover more of
the body than the vest or belt style PFDs.