Fast Facts: Understanding the Lifespan of Your Life Jacket – What to Do After Accidental Inflation or Exposure to Water

Life jackets are an essential safety item on any boat, designed to save lives in emergencies. However, what happens if your life jacket accidentally inflates or gets soaked? The good news is that in most cases, you don’t have to replace the entire jacket. With proper inspection and maintenance, your life jacket can continue to serve you well.

 

Step One: Inspect seams for damage

The first thing to do after your life jacket has inflated or gotten wet is to inspect it carefully. Begin by checking the seams of the jacket. These are critical areas where damage is most likely to occur. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as fraying, loose threads or small tears. If the seams are intact and show no signs of damage, your jacket is likely still in good condition.

 

Step Two: Refer to manufacturer guidelines

Once you’ve determined that the seams are intact, the next step is to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines. Every life jacket comes with specific instructions for maintenance, including how to handle situations like accidental inflation or water exposure. These guidelines will provide you with detailed steps on how to replace the gas cylinder and cartridge, which are the components responsible for inflation.

Typically, these components can be easily replaced, allowing you to restore your life jacket to full functionality without needing to buy a new one. Following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully is crucial to ensuring that the replacement process is done correctly and that the life jacket will perform as expected in an emergency.

 

Check the expiration date

Life jackets have a lifespan that vary depending on the brand, generally ranging from three to five years. The mark date on the jacket indicates its expiration; it’s important to regularly check this date to ensure that your jacket is still within its functional period. If the jacket is still within its expiration date, replacing the gas cylinder and cartridge is usually sufficient to keep it in working order.

 

Regular maintenance and storage

In addition to these steps, regular maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your jacket. After each use, especially if the jacket has been exposed to water, dry it thoroughly before storing it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing life jackets in areas where they could be crushed or punctured, as this could damage the inflation mechanism.

 

No Need to Replace– Just Maintain

Accidental inflation or getting your life jacket wet doesn’t mean it’s time to toss it out. By following these steps – inspecting the seams, referring to the manufacturer’s guidelines, and checking the expiration date – you can ensure that your life jacket remains safe and functional. Proper maintenance and timely replacement of parts will keep your life jacket in good condition, ready to protect you when you need it most.