SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-inflatable-full-cylinder

Before using an inflatable life jacket, what must you check?

A full gas cylinder and green status indicators.

  1. That it's already partly blown up
  2. That the foam inside is dry
  3. Full gas cylinder and green status indicators ✔

Why: The Coast Guard guide says inflatable life jackets need regular care: the cylinder must be full and all status indicators green. Otherwise it may not inflate when you need it.

Huh, didn't know that: Under 33 CFR 175.23, an inflatable worn already inflated doesn't need its inflation system armed.

The dad joke
Why did the inflatable life jacket see a counselor? It had too much pent-up pressure.
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Sources

  1. USCG A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats (2023) https://www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/Boaters-Guide-to-Federal-Requirements-for-Receational-Boats-20231108.pdf
  2. 33 CFR 175.23 Serviceable condition (eCFR) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/section-175.23

Test yourself in the game

Boating & WaterFederal rules say a recreational boat must carry how many wearable life jackets?Boating & WaterAt what boat length does federal law add a throwable flotation device to the wearable ones?Boating & WaterUnder the federal rule, kids under what age must wear a life jacket on a moving boat?

That's stuff everyone should know.