Life jackets are popular, especially among active fishermen and boaters. However, compared to normal life jackets and boating jackets, life jackets require regular maintenance. Life jackets should be checked at least once a year. Another reason is to check the dates of the carbon dioxide cartridge and the trigger fuse.
The most important function of any life jacket is to protect a person when they are in the water , which is why it is important to keep them in good condition. Happy Angler has compiled the most important tips for maintaining life jackets.
Bulletproof vest check – out of date?
Compared to traditional buoyancy aids, the automatic inflation of life jackets is a technical device and therefore requires regular maintenance. A depleted carbon dioxide cartridge or a non-functioning trigger cartridge must be replaced regularly.
The most common cartridge replacement interval is three years, with some vests requiring up to five years.
Bulletproof vest checklist
- Always check before use that the surface material of life jackets, boating jackets or life jackets is intact and that the straps and buckles are intact.
- Open the protective cover of the vest and check the date of the cartridge. If these have expired, replace them with new ones . You can find the spare cartridges sold by Happyangler.fi in the online store. If the expiration date is approaching, you can test the carrying capacity and functionality of the vest by firing the vest. It is easy to check the filled vests and at the same time see if they have any leaks.
- In life jackets and boating vests, check that the buoyancy agent is solid and intact.
- Vests can be washed using mild soapy water.
Blow test - ensure the air tightness of the vests!
Before the blow test, it is a good idea to check how the vests are packed under the protective sleeve so that you can repack them correctly. Instructions for repacking vests can also be found on YouTube. The test ensures the air tightness of the air tank.
Many inflatable vests can be filled yourself using a blowpipe with a two-way valve. The air should remain inside the inflated vest for 24 hours. Put the vest on, tighten the straps to fit, and inflate the vest by blowing.
Adjust the straps to fit while wearing the bra.
If the air has remained within 24 hours and the vests are still full, you can use the drain valve to let the air out and pack the vests inside the protective sleeve. For vests that have been deflated, check the cartridge attachments and do the test again.
If the vests don't stay inflated, order new ones!
If the vests don't stay inflated, order new ones!
Also read tips for choosing life jackets, boating jackets and life jackets here .
Watch a short video from the Finnish Swimming Education and Lifesaving Association, SUH, on life jacket maintenance. Watch the video .
Safe moments on the water!
Text: Juha Salonen, blogger and fan.
