What is PFD Type IV?

• A. Immersion suit
• B. Throwable device (Like Ring Buoys, and Buoyant Cushions)
• C. Wearable life jacket
• D. Inflatable jacket

Answer: (B)

PFD Type IV is a throwable flotation device. It’s not worn by the person in the water. Instead, you throw it to someone who is in distress to provide immediate buoyant help and keep them afloat while you assist them. Examples include a ring buoy and a buoyant cushion. It must be kept readily accessible on deck or in an easy-to-reach location so you can deploy it quickly.

This is different from an immersion suit, which is a protective suit worn for cold-water survival and warmth, or from a wearable life jacket, which would be a Type I–III device worn to provide buoyancy and support in the water. An inflatable jacket is also a wearable device (often a Type V or other category depending on use) and is not a throwable device.