This PFD is classified as a Type 2 PFD, and a Type 5 PFD. It is intended to be used as near-shore buoyant vests. They’re not designed for long periods in rough water, but for calm, inland water. This PFD will flip a person even if they’re unconscious onto their back to keep their head out of the water. It is not intended for children under the age of 16.
The PFD employs the Hydrostatic Inflation Technology system (HIT) which uses a firing pin in the jacket which in turn discharges the replaceable CO2 jet, inflating the jacket.