As a professional kayak instructor, Wilderness First Responder, and someone who spends a lot of time on the water, I always enjoy chatting with folks at local outdoor stores. Gear evolves, and I like to see what’s new. A few weekends ago, I had an insightful encounter with a couple in their 40s who were shopping for inflatable personal flotation devices (PFDs) to wear while paddleboarding.
🚨 Caught Without a PFD = $150 Fine
They shared a frustrating story: both were recently fined $150 (each) by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for paddleboarding without a PFD. They were shocked to learn that, yes, paddleboards are considered vessels by the U.S. Coast Guard, and as such, require the same basic safety equipment as a canoe or kayak. This includes a USCG-approved life jacket.
FWC is the main enforcement agency for boating safety here in Florida. They’re not out to ruin your fun. They’re trying to keep people from becoming statistics. And unfortunately, when it comes to paddleboards, the stats are sobering.
⚰️ The Risk Is Real: SUP-Related Drownings
According to U.S. Coast Guard data:
- In 2022, 20 paddleboarders drowned in U.S. waters.
- Over 80% of all boating deaths involved people not wearing life jackets.
- The number of SUP-related incidents continues to rise as the sport grows in popularity; especially in warm-weather states like Florida, where people often underestimate risk because of calm-looking water.
🤔 Inflatable Waist PFDs: How They Work
The couple was eyeing a sale on the $84 inflatable belt PFDs. It’s a tempting alternative to bulkier vests. These devices are minimalist and worn around the waist like a fanny pack. But here’s the catch:
🧵 1. Most don’t automatically inflate
You must manually deploy the personal floatation device by pulling a cord. This activates a CO₂ cartridge that inflates a bladder. But before you pull the cord the wearer needs to unfold the waist fanny pack, PFD style, then put it over the head, and then pull the cord to activate the CO₂ cartridge.
⏱️ 2. They take time to don
In a real emergency: such as a fall where you’re stunned, injured, or in rough water you’ll need to:
- Slip the inflated PFD over your head and secure it
- Locate the pull tab
- Yank the cord
- Get a solid breath while it inflates
That’s a tall order when adrenaline is surging or the water is cold.
💸 3. The rearming kit isn’t free
After one use (or accidental inflation), you’ll need to replace the CO₂ cartridge, which costs $15–$25 per kit. That’s an ongoing cost not everyone considers.
✅ Why a $30 Type III Life Jacket Might Be the Safer Choice
For many paddlers especially adults in the 40+ age range a standard Type III PFD offers some major advantages:
- It’s always on and always working. No pulling cords, no fumbling in waves.
- It provides buoyancy immediately, even if you’re unconscious or disoriented.
- It requires no maintenance no cartridges to check or replace.
- It’s USCG-approved and compliant, keeping you legal in the eyes of the FWC and Coast Guard.
Sure, it’s bulkier but the trade-off in peace of mind and immediate flotation is worth it.
🦺 Safety Isn’t Optional, It’s Foundational
The couple I spoke with on that day ultimately decided to try one of each. A smart move, but I urged them to practice using the inflatable and getting back on their board before relying on the PDF in the field. And also I encouraged them to keep a traditional PFD in their kit, even as a backup.
As we say in the wilderness medicine and paddling communities:
“In an emergency, you don’t rise to the occasion; you fall to the level of your training and preparation.”
💬 Final Thoughts: Respect the Water, Respect the Law
Florida is a paddling paradise, but it’s also home to strong currents, boat traffic, unexpected weather, and submerged hazards. The FWC isn’t handing out tickets to be mean they’re trying to save lives. A $150 fine stings, but it’s a fraction of the cost of a life lost due to preventable drowning.
So whether you’re on a paddleboard, kayak, or canoe, remember:
➡️ Wear a USCG-approved life jacket
➡️ Understand your gear and practice with it
➡️ Respect the FWC they’re looking out for you
Stay safe out there. See you on the water. 🌊
—
Jeff Fabiszewski
Wilderness First Responder Instructor | ACA Open Water Kayak Instructor | Expedition Paddler
Liquid Rhythm Adventures' Journal 