Top Ten Reasons to Wear a PFD
by Sherri Blifford
Dr. Jane Goodall wore her PFD
on Buffalo Bayou and so did her
famous ambassador, Mr. H.
Click on image to enlarge.
Courtesy of the Whitewater Experience
Eventually, anyone who paddles often encounters the idiot who simply will not put on a PFD. You insist. They put it on. And refuse to fasten it. They make it a game.
"It's too uncomfortable", "It's too hot", "It doesn't look cool", "I'm a good swimmer" whines the newcomer. Weren't these the same excuses for not wearing a seat belt? They're just as silly now for the PFD.
To make your trip easier (it's just so tiresome, dragging the body back), herewith are some answers you can use.
You should wear a personal flotation device (PFD) because it can help provide:
  1. Visibility so you can be found
  2. A comfortable seat or pillow during breaks
  3. Lightning protocol help
  4. Buoyancy, so you can help others
  5. Example for children and newbies
  6. Rack for personal items such as whistle or knife
  7. Some limited thermal control
  8. Support for the head of an unconscious victim
  9. Protection from blunt trauma
  10. Sense of security
Click on image to enlarge.
Big Foot always wears his PFD.
How about you?
Photo courtesy of Don Greene
And did we mention that one might save your life?
If you are with an outfitter, not wearing your PFD may cost him his permit (end of trip) and, in some places, you will get a ticket (do not pass GO, do not collect $200, it will cost you money). The various officials - US Coast Guard, National Park Service, and local ones - take this safety stuff seriously.

Be a grown up and buckle up.