How To Choose A PFD - PFD Maintenance

Maintenance and Storage Tips

If you want your PFD to take good care of you -- take good care of your PFD. Follow these tips and your PFD will last for many years.

Don't alter your PFD to make it fit. Buy another that does fit.

Don't put heavy objects on it or use it for a knee pad or fender, it can lose buoyancy when crushed.

Don't leave your PFD on board for long periods when the boat is not in use, the heat can degrade its flotation.

Don't dry your PFD in a dryer, on a radiator, heater, or any other direct heat source. This can degrade and damage the

buoyancy material.

Don't let your PFD lie out in the sun when the boat is not in use. Sunlight weakens some synthetic fabrics very rapidly.

Don't leave your PFD onboard for long periods of time when the boat is not in use, the heat can degrade its flotation.

Don't dry your PFD in a dryer, on a radiator, heater or any other direct heat source. This can degrade and damage the

buoyancy material.

Do let your PFD drip dry thoroughly before putting it away.

If your PFD has been in salt water, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water.

Do stow your PFD in a well ventilated place.

Do check your PFD for rips, tears, and holes and make sure seams, straps and hardware are okay.

Do make sure there is no sign of water-logging, mildew odor, or shrinkage of the buoyant materials.

Do check and replace spent cartridges in inflatable PFDs.

Do put your name on your PFD if you are the only wearer. It will keep you from mistakenly putting on one that is not

sized for you.

Do test all your PFDs at the start of every boating season.

Do discard old PFDs by cutting them up and properly disposing of them. You don't want someone finding one you discarded and using it.

Do give your PFDs all the above checks, plus check their buoyancy in the water, at least twice a year.

70% of all boating fatality accidents result from drowning.
Almost 90% of those who drown are not wearing a life jacket!