Inflatable life jackets
Inflatable life jackets rely on inflatable chambers that provide buoyancy when inflated. Uninflated, inflatable life jackets are less bulky than inherently buoyant life jackets. Inflatables come in a variety performance types. The specific type of life jacket is determined by characteristics such as its amount of buoyancy, its in-water performance and its type of inflation mechanism. To understand the details of a life jacket, read the life jacket label and owner’s manual, and consult your dealer or retailer if necessary. All Inflatables contain a backup oral inflation tube (which also serves as the deflation tube).
Benefits
• High visibility when inflated
• Turns most wearers face-up faster than traditional life jackets
• Will usually keep unconscious users face-up
• May be more comfortable than inherently buoyant life jackets
• Superior in-water performance
Considerations
• Some require multiple steps to deploy
• Not suitable for nonswimmers because they cannot accomplish oral inflation if needed
• Only approved for persons 16 years of age and older
• Not appropriate for activities that involve frequent water entry or high-speed boating activities
(e.g., personal watercraft use, racing, sailboarding, whitewater rafting)
• Require frequent inspection and maintenance
