Filter
Top Products
19
THESE DEVICES ARE INTENDED TO HELP
SAVE YOUR LIFE
For your PFD to function properly, follow these suggestions to verify
that it fits, floats, and remains in good condition.
o Check the single point status indicator on the inflator before
each use (see "Inspecting your inflatable PFD" on page 14).
o Re-arm your PFD immediately after each inflation (see
"Re-Arming your inflatable PFD" on page 8).
o Try your PFD on and adjust it until it fits comfortably in and out
of the water. (see "How and Why to Test your PFD" on page
16).
o Mark your PFD with your name if you are the only wearer.
o Do not alter your PFD. If it doesn’t fit properly, get one that does.
An altered device is no longer Coast Guard approved.
o Do not use your PFD as a fender or kneeling pad.
o If your PFD is wet, allow it to dry thoroughly before storing it.
Store it in a warm, dry, well ventilated area.
o Do not dry your PFD with direct heat.
HYPOTHERMIA
Prolonged exposure to cold water causes a condition known as
hypothermia – a substantial loss of body heat which leads to
exhaustion and unconsciousness. Most drowning victims first suffer
from hypothermia.
The following chart shows the effects of hypothermia:
Water Temperature
˚C (˚F)
Exhaustion or
Unconsciousness
Expected Time of
Survival
0.3 (32.5) Under 15 min. Under 15–45 min.
0.3–4 (32.5–40) 15–30 min. 30–90 min.
4–10 (40–50) 30–60 min. 1–3 hrs
10–16 (50–60) 1–2 hrs. 1–6 hrs.
16–21 (60–70) 2–7 hrs. 2–40 hrs.
21–27 (70–80) 2–12 hrs. 3 hrs. to Indefinite
over 27 (over 80) Indefinite Indefinite