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Every year it seems like this question comes up on another forum. Here is the infomation I provide almost every year. I figured it might apply here. The below information was cut from several posts I made
The older style jackets were labeled as Type IV which must be worn to count. Almost all of the new ones are type I or II and are treated like any other jacket.
In some states however, they do not go by USCG rules so they don't count as a jacket unless it is worn. Michigan follows USCG and as long as it is of the correct type, it doesn't need to be worn. It took a little while for the data cards and documentation to catch up but the Michigan boater laws do specifically mention them as does USCG. I own 8 of them in three seperate boats. I wear one every time my boat is above trolling speed, in inclimate weather, or when my daughter is on board. During tournaments, I forget I have it on. I have been in a downpour, rain, sleet, and snow and they do not deploy. I stow all of mine in my compartments and never have them go off. In winter they go in the basement.
The older jackets had issues. The newer ones need to be submerged to go off. If you have an old jacket, check it. They usually say type IV
And because I never trust anyone to tell me the law... here you go
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Years ago, when inflatables first came out, almost all were Type IV which must be worn to count at that time. They specifically mentioned inflatables in a lot of laws as "not counting" because of this. Companies built better jackets and had them approved to follow type I and II guidelines.
Notice in the rules it specifically mentions inflatables not be allowed on PWC.
One should note that the USCG rules have recently changed (within the past few years). Type IV is now considered a throwable and they have a new type V designation.
This one took the place of what I have, use, and swear by.
Read the product description and it will tell you the USCG rating. They are NOT allowed for people under 16 years of age.
I have a whistle on a lanyard in each zipper pocket, and attachable strobes for night fishing.
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The confusion on inflatables is the type v hybrid pfd. These are situational devices that must be worn to count. They include deck vests, some suspenders, the waste packs, and others.
These "used" to be lumped in as type IV with the throwable devices but has since changed with the USCG law changes. PFG is also used as personal flotation garment.
The KEY in all of this is what the tag says! Type I, II, or III regardless of it's make-up is simply counted as a required device. If you have an older type IV, or a newer type V, you better have it on to count it.
