Choosing Between Automatic and Manual Inflatable PFDs

When it comes to personal flotation devices (PFDs), the most important factor is simple: wearing one can save lives. However, deciding between automatic and manual inflatable PFDs is an ongoing topic of discussion among boaters and safety advocates.

Key Considerations for Selecting a PFD

Choosing the right PFD depends on your unique circumstances. It’s essential to assess how and where you’ll be using the device to determine what works best for you. Rather than focusing on a specific type, it’s recommended to perform a thorough risk evaluation based on factors such as:

• Your swimming ability
• Whether you often sail alone
• The type of vessel and its likelihood to capsize
• Water temperature (cold water below 15˚C can cause cold shock)
• Personal risk factors, such as balance challenges

For confident swimmers with good balance, a manual inflatable PFD may be suitable. However, if you feel uneasy in the water or are prone to panic, an automatic PFD might be the safer option. Many automatic models can also convert to manual inflation with a sealing cap, allowing you to adapt based on conditions.

How Inflatable PFDs Work

Inflatable PFDs use an inflator mechanism to fill the device with air from a carbon dioxide (CO2) cylinder. Manual models require the user to pull a “jerk tab” to activate inflation, while automatic PFDs inflate when water triggers a sensitive cartridge.

PFDs are classified by buoyancy levels, including 50, 100, 150, and 275 newtons. Offshore sailors typically prefer 150-newton models, as they offer a balance between buoyancy and comfort for open waters. Heavier 275-newton options are often used in industrial settings, particularly where heavy clothing is worn. Inflatable PFDs are also designed to help turn a person face-up in the water, making it easier to breathe.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Automatic Inflation

Automatic PFDs offer the key advantage of inflating as soon as they come into contact with water. This feature can be life-saving if the wearer is unconscious or unable to pull the manual activation cord, such as in cases of cold shock. However, it's still possible to drown in rough waters if the wearer is unable to manage their breathing, which is why using a spray hood or cupping hands over the nose and mouth is recommended to reduce water intake.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Manual Inflation

Manual inflatable PFDs allow the wearer complete control over when to inflate the device, which can help avoid accidental inflation. This makes manual vests well-suited for use on smaller boats or in areas with frequent rain, where unexpected inflation could be a nuisance. Additionally, manual models typically require less maintenance than automatic ones.

However, manual PFDs require the user to be conscious and capable of pulling the activation cord. This makes them less suitable for non-swimmers, children under 16, or individuals prone to panic.

Weighing the Risks

A potential downside of automatic PFDs is the unlikely—but possible—scenario where a boater could become trapped under an overturned vessel with the inflated device hindering escape. In such a situation, the wearer might need to deflate the vest, swim out, and reinflate it manually—a task that can be physically demanding.

While manual PFDs cannot be converted to automatic, many automatic vests can switch to manual inflation with a blanking cap. Though not a quick adjustment, this feature allows for flexibility depending on conditions.

Additional Safety Features

Regardless of whether you choose an automatic or manual PFD, its effectiveness relies on using additional safety features. A well-fitted harness, spray hood, and crutch strap are essential. Other recommended equipment includes a tether, water-activated light, reflective tape, a whistle, a safety knife, and personal locator beacons (PLB), emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRB), or search and rescue transponders (SART).

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between an automatic and manual inflatable PFD depends on your personal needs and the specific risks you may encounter. Careful assessment of your situation and thoughtful preparation are key to staying safe on the water.