Inflatable PFD's - Automatic vs. Manual
The automatic (i.e. water activated) triggers used on inflatable PFD's rely upon a water soluble "bobbin". This bobbin is used to retain a spring which, when released, impacts the firing pin of the inflator valve causing the puncture of a CO cylinder that inflates the air chamber. Manual triggers are simpler. Inflation is accomplished by pulling a ripcord that causes the firing pin to activate. Both PFD styles also have an oral infiltration tube that allows the chamber to be inflated like a balloon.
While automatic inflation is desirable in the event of an unconscious victim, it is imperative to understand that these systems must be maintained. Auto-inflation systems are inherently unstable due to the constant force of the spring in combination with a bobbin that is affected by temperature and humidity. Without proper maintenance, these variables have been known to cause PFD's to suddenly inflate without immersion, as well as to not inflate due to changes in the bobbin that render it insoluble. When deciding between water activated versus manually activated PFD's, it is vital to consider the storage and maintenance aspects.
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On Manual Inflatable Lifejackets, do I have to blow it up by mouth?
No. Manual Inflatable Lifejackets are inflated by pulling the cord with the 'Jerk to Inflate' knob at the bottom of the device. This causes the Lifejacket to be inflated using a COČ gas cartridge. All inflatable Lifejackets do have an oral inflation tube as backup should you want or need to inflate by mouth.
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What does 35 lbs. of buoyancy mean?
A 35 lbs. buoyant apparatus is capable of supporting 35 lbs of a very dense material such as lead, iron, gold, granite, etc. It will not allow the material to reach the bottom. The question most people ask is how can this help a 200 lbs. person? The answer is that the average adult only weighs approximately 10 lbs. in the water. Unbelievable? Actually, it is simple science and works like this:
a 200 lbs. man is approximately 80% water, which equals 160 lbs. of his total weight on land. Water has no weight in water. A 200 lbs. man is also approximately 15% fat, which equals 30 lbs. of his total weight on land. Fat is lighter than water and therefore it floats. When you do the math, the man's actual weight in water is equal to 10 lbs. (200-190=10) Thus, a flotation device with 35 lbs. of buoyancy is more than adequate to keep the average human afloat!
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What does the different Life Jacket Ratings Mean?
LIFE JACKETS
TYPE 1: This jacket floats the best. It is designed to turn most people who are unconscious in the water from the face-down position to an upright and slightly backward position. This
jacket helps the person to stay in that position for a long time. It is to be used in open water and oceans. It is available in only 2 sizes: 1 size for
adults more than 90 pounds and 1 size for children less than 90 pounds.
TYPE 2: This jacket can turn a person upright and slightly backwards but not as much as the Type 1 jacket. It may not always help an unconscious person to
float face up. It is comfortable and comes in many sizes for children.
TYPE 3: This jacket is designed for conscious users in calm, inland water. It is very comfortable and comes in many styles. This life jacket is often used
for water sports and should be used only when it is expected that the rescue can be done quickly.
LIFE PRESERVERS
TYPE 4: A life preserver is a cushion or ring and is not worn. It is designed to be used in two ways. It can be grasped and held until the person is rescued, or it can be thrown to
someone in the water until he or she is rescued. It is not a toy and should only be used in a rescue situation. Check the label on the life preserver to
be sure it meets US Coast Guard or state regulations.
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Will any size COČ work on the Inflatable Lifejackets?
No, they will not. Different Inflatable Lifejackets can provide varying amounts of buoyancy.
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Will my vest turn me over if I am unconscious and face down in the water?
There is a difference between a Lifejacket and a Personal Flotation device (PFD). A PFD is designed for constant wear where comfort and flotation are the critical issues. A PFD will not self right you. A Lifejacket will turn you over, but is less comfortable to wear. Typically, Lifejackets are horseshoe shaped in design and slip over your head with all of the flotation in the front of your body up around your neck.
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