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Offshore Lifejacket
This is designed for extended survival in rough, open water. It usually will turn an unconscious person face-up and has 22 pounds of buoyancy. This is the best to keep you afloat in remote regions where rescue may be slow coming.

Near Shore Life Vest
This "classic"Â comes in several sizes for adults and children and is for calm inland water where there is chance of fast rescue. It is less bulky and less expensive than a Type I, and many turn an unconscious person face-up in the water

Floatation Aid
These lifejackets are generally considered the most comfortable, with styles for different boating activities and sports. They are for use in calm water where there is good chance of fast rescue since they will generally not turn an unconscious person face-up. Floatation aids come in many sizes and styles.

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Throwable Device
These are designed to be thrown to a person in the water. Throwable devices include boat cushions, ring buoys, and horseshoe buoys. They are not designed to be worn and must be supplemented by a wearable . It is important to keep these devices immediately available for emergencies, and they should not be used for small children, non-swimmers, or unconscious people.

Special Use Devise
Special use PFDs include work vests, deck suits, and hybrids for restricted use. Hybrid vests contain some internal buoyancy and are inflatable to provide additional flotation.
