How can you test a child's fit in a PFD?

To assess a child's fit in a Personal Flotation Device (PFD), picking the child up by the shoulders of the PFD is an effective method. This technique helps ensure that the PFD is properly secured and that it fits snugly. When you lift the child by the shoulders, a well-fitting PFD should hold them up without rising excessively above their chin or face, indicating that it will perform effectively in the water.

This method directly tests the PFD's security and suitability for the child’s body, ensuring that it will stay in place in an emergency situation. A loose-fitting PFD can pose significant risks, as it may not provide the necessary buoyancy or support, thus emphasizing the importance of this testing method.

Other methods, such as measuring height against the PFD or inquiring about comfort, do provide some insights but do not guarantee that the PFD will function properly when subjected to the rigors of water conditions. Standing or jumping into the water is not a practical or safe test to conduct. A child’s comfort with the PFD can be subjective, so while it’s important, it shouldn't be the sole determining factor for fit and safety.