The safest type of PFD depends on your intended use. In Gifford’s words, it “should be suitable for the area of operation, the type of activity, and the anticipated time it would take for a rescue to be carried out.” This means choosing a PFD with sufficient buoyancy (both for expected conditions and your swimming ability) and checking the label carefully to ensure it’s approved for your purpose. When it comes to inflatable lifejackets, those that inflate automatically are usually safer than those that inflate manually. The USCG must approve PFDs in America or by an equivalent governing body elsewhere.