A life vest, also known as a personal flotation device (PFD), is a crucial piece of equipment for any water activity. Some other synonyms for life vest include buoyancy aid, life jacket, life preserver, floatation device, safety jacket, and life saver. Each of these terms refers to an item that is designed to keep a person afloat in the water and prevent drowning. Commercially available life vests are made from materials such as foam, neoprene, and nylon and come in various sizes for adults, children, and infants. Regardless of what it is called, a life vest is an essential item for anyone spending time on or near the water.