When it comes to marine safety, a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is one of the most important pieces of equipment you can have on board. Traditional foam life jackets are reliable, but inflatable PFDs offer a lightweight, comfortable, and compact alternative without compromising safety. They’re designed to be less bulky, making them a popular choice for commercial operators, recreational boaters, and professionals who spend long hours on the water.
One of the key features that set inflatable PFDs apart is the way they can be inflated. Most models provide three methods of inflation:
Automatic inflatable PFDs are designed to inflate as soon as they are submerged in water. These models use a water-sensitive mechanism that triggers a CO₂ cylinder, instantly filling the bladder.
Best for: Situations where there’s a risk of falling overboard unexpectedly or if you might be incapacitated in the water.
Advantages: Provides immediate flotation without requiring action from the wearer.
Considerations: Depending on the inflation mechanism, false activations can happen if you are doing an activity that you are getting splashed often or in constant contact with the water.
Manual inflatable PFDs require the wearer to pull a cord that activates the CO₂ cylinder and inflates the device.
Best for: Boaters who want control over when their PFD inflates, such as those working on deck, fishing, or participating in water sports.
Advantages: Reduces the risk of accidental inflation from spray or rain.
Considerations: The wearer must be conscious and able to pull the cord.
All inflatable PFDs are equipped with an oral inflation tube that allows you to blow air directly into the bladder.
Best for: Backup inflation if the CO₂ system does not activate, or topping up air pressure after prolonged use.
Advantages: Provides an added layer of reliability and control.
Considerations: Takes time and effort, so it’s intended as a secondary method rather than a primary one.
Once an inflatable PFD has been deployed, it must be re-armed before it can be used again.
At DSS Protection, our trained technicians provide inspection, servicing, and rearming for inflatable PFDs. We follow manufacturer guidelines to check the CO₂ cylinders, automatic inflation mechanisms, and overall condition of your gear, making sure it’s compliant, re-armed, and ready for the water.
➡️ DSS Protection provides a variety of Inflatable PFDs. Check out the models here!
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