Personal Flotation Device Labels

Manufacturers include valuable information about each PFD on the product label. The label provides information about the PFDs intended use, along with information about the size of person it will fit, care instructions, and how to wear or 'don' the jacket. Keep in mind that using the PFD outside of its listed restrictions and intended use is illegal and can result in receiving a ticket or, more significantly, the loss of a loved one. 

The picture below shows a label you would find on a typical life jacket.

It is the responsibility of the owner/operator of the vessel to inform passengers of the location of PFDs onboard, the importance of wearing them, how to make sure they fit correctly and under what conditions that they are absolutely necessary to be worn. Emphasis should be put on the fact that a life jacket is much harder to put on in the water and passengers should be encouraged to wear them at all times while underway.

If you wait until you are in the water it may be too late!