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HOW DO YOU TEST YOUR PFD USING THE ORAL INFLATOR?
1. No spare parts or re-arming kits are needed to test your Inflatable
PFD, using the oral inflator.
2. Remove the CO
2
cylinder/bayonet assembly to prevent
inadvertent inflation, which could potentially damage the
Inflatable PFD. Inspect the cylinder to confirm it is unused
(Fig. 16). Unscrew and remove the cap and the bobbin (MD2953
only). Otherwise the bobbin will disintegrate during water
immersion.
3. Put on the Inflatable PFD.
4. Get into shallow water, just deep enough that you can stand with
your head above the surface.
5. If you are a weak swimmer or non-swimmer, inflate the Inflatable
PFD partially so that you are supported well enough to be able
to complete inflation without touching bottom, either orally or
manually. Note this level of inflation because it is the minimum
needed for you to safely use this Inflatable PFD.
6. Fully inflate the Inflatable PFD using the oral inflator.
7. See if the Inflatable PFD will float you on your back or just slightly
back of vertical. In a relaxed floating position, verify that your
mouth is well above the water’s surface. Note the effect of where
you hold your legs on how you float.
8. Get out of the water and remove the Inflatable PFD. Completely
deflate the Inflatable PFD using the oral inflator. (see "Deflating
the Inflatable PFD" on p. 11)
9. Let the Inflatable PFD dry thoroughly. Re-arm (for your model)
and Repack the PFD (see "Repacking" on p. 17).
WEAR YOUR PFD
In approximately 80 percent of all boating fatalities, the victims were
not wearing a PFD. Most fatal accidents happen on calm sunny days.
This Inflatable PFD is much more comfortable to wear than other PFD
types. Get into the habit of wearing this Inflatable PFD.
Non-swimmers and children especially should wear a hybrid or non-
Inflatable PFD at all times when on or near the water.
