Lessons Learnt: Are you wearing the right lifejacket?

Pick the right lifejacket © Maritime Safety Victoria

Some 79 per cent of boaters who drowned in the past decade were either not wearing a lifejacket, or wore an incorrect lifejacket.

There are three types of lifejacket to choose from. Level 100 Plus (Type 1) is the most buoyant and will suit most boaters.

Check out video demonstration of different styles of Type 1 jackets in action.

If you do towed sports or ride a jet ski, Level 50 (Type 2) is a safer choice because they don't come with neck support - which can cause issues if hitting the water at speed. Kayakers should opt for a a lifejacket designed for paddling.

Prepare to Survive: Wear a lifejacket

We are often asked what sort of lifejacket we recommend - while we generally use inflatable jackets, you should consider what is right for you.

Inflatable lifejackets require regular checks to keep them in working order.

Learn how to self-inspect your inflatable lifejacket at one of FloatSafe clinics.

Upcoming clinic dates:

• Warrnambool: Sat, Jan 30
• Altona: Wed, Feb 3
• Leopold: Sat, Feb 6
• Patterson River: Wed, Feb 17
• Shepparton: Sat, Feb 20
• Bendigo: Sat, Feb 27
• Hastings: Fri, Mar 12

Lifejacket Portal: Register your inflatable lifejacket to receive maintenance tips and service reminders via email.