Which type of PFD must most states require on board vessels 16 feet in length or longer?

The requirement for a throwable device on vessels 16 feet in length or longer is based on safety regulations aimed at ensuring that adequate flotation devices are available for emergencies. A throwable device, such as a type IV PFD, is designed to be thrown to a person in the water who needs assistance, making it a critical safety feature on larger vessels where the chance of a person falling overboard is higher.

This option is particularly significant because a larger boat can have more people onboard, increasing the chance of someone needing assistance in the water. The regulations recognize the importance of not only providing personal flotation devices that the passengers can wear but also having a device that can be tossed quickly to someone who is in a panic or unable to swim towards the boat.

The other types of Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) have specific uses and limitations. For example, near-shore vests and offshore life jackets are primarily meant for wear by individuals, while flotation aids may not be designed to provide the same level of support in an emergency situation. Their functions are vital but do not replace the need for a throwable device on larger vessels according to safety standards.