SRT PFD & Dry Suit Selection 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which USCG PFD type is specifically designed for calm, inland water use where quick rescue is likely?
- Type I Offshore Life Jacket
- Type II Near-Shore Buoyant Vest (Correct answer)
- Type III Flotation Aid
- Type V Special Use Device
Correct answer: Type II Near-Shore Buoyant Vest
Type II PFDs are designed for calm inland waters where rescue is expected to be quick, but they offer less buoyancy than Type I.
Question 2: A swiftwater rescuer requires a PFD that allows them to be pulled face-up if unconscious. Which USCG type best meets this need?
- Type III
- Type IV
- Type I (Correct answer)
- Type V
Correct answer: Type I
Type I Offshore Life Jackets are designed to turn most unconscious wearers face-up and provide the highest buoyancy.
Question 3: Which PFD feature is most critical for swiftwater rescue operations involving entanglement hazards?
- Reflective tape on the shoulders
- Quick-release buckles on all straps (Correct answer)
- A crotch strap to prevent ride-up
- High-visibility orange color
Correct answer: Quick-release buckles on all straps
Quick-release buckles allow a rescuer to rapidly shed the PFD if it becomes snagged on underwater obstacles.
Question 4: When sizing a rescue PFD, what measurement is most important?
- Height
- Weight only
- Chest circumference (Correct answer)
- Waist circumference
Correct answer: Chest circumference
Chest circumference is the primary measurement used to fit a PFD, ensuring it wraps properly and stays in place.
Question 5: What does a 'tethered PFD' configuration refer to in swiftwater rescue?
- A PFD clipped to a fixed anchor point
- A PFD integrated with a throw bag tether system
- A PFD attached to the victim during a live-bait rescue
- A PFD with a quick-release waist belt for line attachment (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A PFD with a quick-release waist belt for line attachment
A tethered PFD includes a quick-release waist belt that allows a rescuer to connect to a belay line while retaining the ability to release instantly.
Question 6: Which scenario requires a PFD with a minimum 22 lbs of buoyancy for adult use in swiftwater?
- Calm lake paddling
- Class I flatwater rescue
- Swift or whitewater rescue operations (Correct answer)
- Pool-based water rescue drills
Correct answer: Swift or whitewater rescue operations
Swiftwater rescue PFDs typically require at least 22 lbs of buoyancy to keep a rescuer afloat in turbulent, aerated water.
Question 7: A rescue PFD with an integrated knife pocket is recommended for swiftwater rescuers primarily because:
- It adds weight for stability
- It allows quick cutting of entangled lines or webbing (Correct answer)
- It is required by USCG regulations
- It replaces the need for a throw bag
Correct answer: It allows quick cutting of entangled lines or webbing
A quickly accessible knife allows rescuers to cut ropes or webbing if entangled underwater, preventing drowning.
SRT PFD & Dry Suit Selection 2
Which USCG PFD type is specifically designed for calm, inland water use where quick rescue is likely?