PFD Inspection and Maintenance

The best PFD is the one you wear. That’s why it’s so important to maintain your PFDs and inspect them regularly to ensure they are in good condition and working properly. 
 
Inflatable personal flotation devices (PFDs) are unique because inherently buoyant materials do not cause the wearer's flotation. For them to do their job, you, the wearer, must do yours. 
 
This means you have the responsibility to ensure you are familiar with  your inflatable PFD's operation and maintenance requirements— and its limitations.  

This is a general guide, check the owner’s manual to learn more about your device and its features. 

 

 

VISUAL INSPECTION BEFORE EVERY USE

Inflator inspection: 

If the service indicator on device is red, re-arm device.If the indicator is green, you may still need to re-arm device.  For more information please refer to “Re-arming or converting your inflatable PFD”.

Product related inspection: 

1. Inspect your PFD for damage or excessive abrasion, wear, tear, or contamination, such as mildew or oil stains. Ensure you pay particular attention to the stitching, straps, and hardware. 
2. If any item shows signs of damage, perform the tasks listed in the “Every Six (6) Months” inspection details. If in doubt, send it to your Mustang Survival dealer for evaluation and/or servicing. 
3. Ensure all lobe closures (breakout zipper or Hook & Loop tape) remain securely fastened. 
4.  Securely fasten the waistbelt and check that it's not twisted. 
5. Check that the oral-inflation dust cap is in the stowed position. 
6. Ensure the manual pull tab is accessible. 

 

 

AFTER EACH INFLATION
Re-arm your device.

SHOP RE-ARM KITS

 

EVERY SIX (6) MONTHS 

Perform these tests more often if the PFD is exposed to potential damage or used in extreme conditions, like when you have limited control over water ingress (e.g., green water over the bow.) 

1. Leak Test: Orally inflate your PFD until firm and let it stand for at least two hours, ideally overnight (16 hours), in a temperature--stable environment. A leaking PFD will not hold its firmness and should be replaced. If your PFD leaks, contact Mustang Survival Customer Service for evaluation and/or servicing. 

2. Deflate and Repack PFD as outlined in the owner’s manual removing as much air as possible. 

3. Check Inflator. If service indicator on device is red, re-arm device.  

If service indicator is green, you may still need to re-arm device. Please refer to “When do I need to re-arm my Mustang Survival Inflatable Life Vest” for more information. 

 

ANNUALLY

1. Visual Inspection: Thoroughly check all components for dirt and/or corrosion. Clean or replace, as necessary. If any item shows signs of damage, perform inspections listed in “Every Six (6) Months” inspection details. If in doubt, contact Mustang Survival customer service.
2. Perform “Every Six (6) Months” tasks.
3. Clean the inflatable PFD: Follow "CLEANING AND STORAGE” section below.
4. Record Annual Inspection in permanent ink on the Care and Storage label, in the Date Maintained column.

NOTE: There is no standard placement for inspection labels across PFD models, but they are typically found near the inflator (when the bladder is exposed). See the graphic below for examples of label placement on some of our best-selling models.

CLEANING AND STORING
To clean your PFD, hand wash or sponge down in warm, soapy water, taking care not to submerge or expose the inflator to water. Rinse your PFD with clean water and hang to dry on a plastic coat hanger. Do not dry-clean, use chlorine bleach, or apply direct heat.

 Always store your fully dried PFD in a warm, dry, well-ventilated place out of direct sunlight.

 

For convenience: DOWNLOAD our Inflatable Life Jacket Self Inspection check list.