Throwable PFDs
Outfit your boat with throwable flotation.
Throwable flotation found at West Marine includes horseshoe buoys, rescue slings, ring buoys, cushions and rescue slings. Horseshoe buoys, ring buoys and throwable cushions fall into the category of Type IV flotation. Per USCG requirements, boats over 16 feet must carry at least one Type IV device. Type IV flotation devices are not designed to be worn but instead, thrown to a person in the water. They should not to be used as a primary device for anyone, especially non-swimmers. Horseshoe and ring buoys require a bulkhead or rail mount to ensure that they are ready for immediate use.
Rescue slings, such as the Lifesling and Lifesling2 Overboard Rescue systems are classed as Type V devices. When shopping for a Lifesling, be sure to pick up a Lifesling rail mount and also the appropriate lifting tackle.