What type of throwable flotation device is required on most boats 16 feet or longer?

What type of throwable flotation device is required on most boats 16 feet or longer?

• A. A compound PFD worn by the captain
• B. A spare life raft
• C. A manual propulsion device
• D. One USCG-approved Type IV throwable device (ring buoy)

Answer: (D)

A USCG-approved Type IV throwable device, such as a ring buoy, must be onboard and readily accessible on boats 16 feet or longer. This type of device is designed to be thrown to a person in the water to give them something to hold onto and to keep them afloat until help arrives. It is a throwable rescue aid, not a wear-on life jacket, which is why it’s required separately from wearable PFDs. Other options like a wearable life jacket, a spare life raft, or a manual propulsion device don’t satisfy the specific requirement for a throwables tool readily at hand for a person in distress.

A USCG-approved Type IV throwable device, such as a ring buoy, must be onboard and readily accessible on boats 16 feet or longer. This type of device is designed to be thrown to a person in the water to give them something to hold onto and to keep them afloat until help arrives. It is a throwable rescue aid, not a wear-on life jacket, which is why it’s required separately from wearable PFDs. Other options like a wearable life jacket, a spare life raft, or a manual propulsion device don’t satisfy the specific requirement for a throwables tool readily at hand for a person in distress.