Life Preserver Check

[Big Mike]

I use an inflatable life preserver with the CO2 cartridge for comfort. What I don't do regularly is pull back the flap to see if it is "green" and functioning. I took a peek today and saw it was not in working order (looks like the CO2 has leaked out enough that it doesn't have pressure to inflate). No idea how long it was like that and me thinking I was being safe, but really wasn't. If you have one and you haven't looked in a while you might want to.

[Donsail68]

That's why I still don't have one. I feel much safer with my NRS chinook life jacket. I even wear it on my fishing boat.

[jet]

can you manually inflate those, similar to airplane life vests shown during the flight demo?

[Memory Maker]

can you manually inflate those, similar to airplane life vests shown during the flight demo?

......... or the co pilot in the movie Airplane ........

[Big Mike]

can you manually inflate those, similar to airplane life vests shown during the flight demo?

Yes, just like a flight attendant demos in the unlikely event of a water landing. I'm not going to touch the Airplane reference.

[Salty Dog]

I picked up an NRA C-vest this spring and man it is super comfortable and has lots of pockets. Don't think I am going to be blowing up an inflatable in the water after turtling.

[eyedaddy]

I used to have both types on my power boat and once the CO2 type was inflated the replacement was almost as expensive as a new one. The prices have come down but I no longer use them. If you go over board the last thing you want to be thinking about is having to manually inflate that thing. When I got mine for use with the Kayak I followed the advice on here to try it on to see how it feels. So me being me I put it on in the store and sat on a milk crate on the floor and tried to simulate paddling. Yea I got some strange looks but I did rule out a couple of vest that were not pleasant to paddle with. You gotta wear whats comfortable for you. Look for one that has some pockets in front gear the you want within reach at all times. Mine has my hand held VHS radio, emergency knife, Whistle. Also look for some "D" rings on it that come in handy. Thats what I look for and it has served me well! these guys on here are a wealth of outstanding knowledge so if you have a question this is the place to ask it.

[Big Mike]

The replacement CO2 cartridges range from $20 - $30, mine was $20. Every person has there own needs with regards to a PFD. Mine is absolute minimum interference which makes the inflatables something I will wear. The best PFD in the world does no good if you aren't wearing it.