•
Keep PFDs away from sharp objects which can tear the fabric or puncture the
flotation pads.
•
For their own safety and the safety of others, all non-swimmers, poor swim-
mers, and children should wear PFD’s at all times, whether the boat is station-
ary or moving.
•
Check the PFD frequently to make sure that it is not torn, that flotation pads
have no leaks, and that all seams and joints are securely sewn.
•
If a PFD contains kapok, the kapok fibers may become waterlogged and lose
their buoyancy after the vinyl inserts are punctured. If the kapok becomes hard
or if it is soaked with water, replace it. It may not work when you need it.
Hypothermia
Hypothermia, the loss of body heat to the water, is a significant cause of deaths in
boating accidents. After an individual has succumbed to hypothermia, he or she will
lose consciousness and then drown.
PFD’s can increase survival time because of the insulation they provide. Naturally,
the warmer the water, the less insulation one will require. When operating in cold
water (below 40°F) consideration should be given to using a coat or jacket style
PFD as they cover more of the body than the vest style PFD’s.
Some points to remember about hypothermia protection:
1. While afloat in the water, do not attempt to swim unless it is to reach a nearby
craft, fellow survivor, or a floating object on which you can lean or climb.
Unnecessary swimming increases the rate of body heat loss. In cold water
drownproof methods that require putting your head in the water are not recom-
mended. Keep your head out of the water. This will greatly lessen heat loss and
increase your survival time.
2. Keep a positive attitude about your survival and rescue. This will improve your
chances of extending your survival time until rescue. Your will-to-live does
make a difference!
3. If there is more than one person in the water, huddling is recommended while
waiting to be rescued. This action tends to reduce the rate of heat loss and thus
increase the survival time.
4. Always wear your PFD. It won’t help you fight off the effects of hypothermia
if you don’t have it on when you go into the water.
Fire Extinguishers
As the owner of the boat, you are responsible for supplying a fire extinguisher
approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
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