Wearing a life jacket, aka a personal flotation device is one of the best ways to sail smarter and safer.

Inflatable PFD’s are more and more common. They come in two broad types, automatic and manual inflation.

The automatic inflatable has some cons against it. Sailors
who get immersed occasionally but don’t necessarily need a
PFD may not want an automatic. Under prolonged wet
conditions auto-inflaters will go off below decks or on deck
when you are immersed, but still on deck and not in the
water.

The manual inflatable’s problem can come with the ripcord.
For instance, a fanny pack PFD’s ripcord can catch on a
winch or boat fitting and inflate.

Like any other gear or equipment inflatable PFD’s need proper maintenance so they’ll work when needed.

First look at the outer jacket which covers the actual
flotation device. Look for tears and abrasions. Check the
adjustment straps and their buckles for wear and corrosion.

An important piece of information is to know whether the
vest has any leaks when inflated. If you’re a northern
sailor, manually inflate the PFD in the fall, and leave it
inflated until spring. This is a good leak test, and also
helps to prevent cracking that can occur if the unit is left
folded for extended periods.

Another way to leak test is as follows. Inflate the jacket.
Stop when you get to a point where you can squeeze the
jacket and have your fingers just touch. Leave the jacket
for 24 hours and squeeze it again. In either case if you
find a leak, contact the manufacturer for advice and
service.

Other items to check on the inner jacket include reflective
tape, whistle and light. Tape can come unstuck. Either
re-adhere it with contact cement or replace it. Test the
whistle. Check the light for operation and expiration date.

Check the vest for abrasions. These may occur when the
jacket is folded for long periods of time.

Next on your checklist is the inflation cylinder. These
can corrode and rust allowing gas to leak out. Remove the
bottle and weigh using an accurate scale. Make sure the
reading matches the amount on the bottle. Coat the cylinder
with Vaseline to prevent corrosion. Cover the cylinder with
a rubber glove finger to stop chafing.

Another item that needs checking is the inflator. These may
vary by manufacturer so check the information that comes
with your PFD. Generally you are looking for a green,
rather than red, pin or tab indicating the unit is ready.
You also are looking for an exposed red stripe, which could
indicate an empty gas cylinder. As always, green means go.
If you see red either your inflator needs repair, or you gas
cylinder needs to be renewed.

Buying an inflatable PFD ups your safety factor and maintaining keeps the factor high.

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