Which flotation device is throwable?

• A. A ring buoy or throwable cushion.
• B. A life jacket worn on the body.
• C. An inflatable life raft.
• D. A hard hat.

Answer: (A)

Flotation devices come in two broad types: wearable PFDs you put on and keep on, and throwable devices you can toss to someone in the water. The ability to throw and instantly provide buoyancy is what makes a device throwable. A ring buoy or throwable cushion is designed to be tossed to a person in distress so they can grab it and stay afloat while you assist. The life jacket worn on the body is a wearable device and isn’t meant to be thrown to someone else as the primary rescue tool. An inflatable life raft is deployed during emergencies and isn’t a handheld throw-to-a-person device. A hard hat has no flotation function.