One of the most valuable pieces of Boating equipment in your arsenal, a PFD or life jacket can be a lifesaver if things go pear shaped on the water. Now, inflatable PFDs have always been a winner among boaties and fishos alike, with the comfort and unrestrictive qualities that you only find with an inflatable PFD. Although these jackets must be serviced once a year, the good news is you can do it yourself. Check out how simple it is below and remember… if you look after your life jacket, it’ll always be there to look after you!
Before we get too carried away, there’s something super important you need to be made aware of! Recently there’s been a product safety recall on some of BCF’s most popular self-inflating life jackets purchased between 14 June 2021 – 20 December 2024. To find out whether your life jacket is affected, check the grey plastic part of the inflator (recalled inflators are marked “V96000 Halkey Roberts”). PFD’s aren’t the type of thing you wear every day, which is why it’s so important to check that yours is compliant, before your life depends on it! If your life jacket contains the affected inflator, return it to the place of purchase for exchange or refund. If you’re looking for more information about the safety recall, see here.
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Regularly inspect your lifejacket – This is one that should be done far more regularly than just when service time rolls around. Inspecting your PFD for any visible signs of wear and tear should be done before each use, paying close attention to the buckles, webbing, outer cover and bladder.
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Check the CO₂ Cylinder – This is what actually inflates your PFD, so ensuring it's in working order is a top priority. Simply unscrew the cylinder and check for rust, damage or corrosion. If it’s pierced or damaged, it must be replaced. Weigh the cylinder and ensure the weight matches what’s engraved on the bottle (if there’s more than a 2g variation, replace it).
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Inflate the Lifejacket – Pulling the toggle isn’t the only way to inflate one of these bad boys — use the mouthpiece to blow into it until it feels firm.
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Leave the PFD inflated overnight – Leave it inflated for an extended period to check if the bladder retains pressure. If it loses air, redo the test or take it to a service agent for help (don’t attempt repairs yourself).
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Deflate the bladder – Insert the back of the cap into the oral tube to release the air completely.
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Properly repack the lifejacket – Once everything checks out, carefully repack your PFD following the owner’s manual or the printed instructions. Make sure the manual inflation pull lanyard is not tangled and is easily accessible.
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Record your service – Note when you last serviced the PFD and replaced the CO₂ cylinder. You can write this on the bladder with a felt pen or fill out the self-service form. Keep both handy in case authorities check your gear.
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Must be serviced by a registered agent after 5 years – Even with yearly self-servicing, you’ll need a registered service agent to inspect your PFD every 5 years to keep it compliant and reliable.
Your lifejacket might just be the most important piece of kit on your boat. Give it the attention it deserves, and it’ll take care of you when you need it most.
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BCFing Experts
The BCFing Experts have done more than their fair share of boating, camping, fishing, hiking, four-wheel driving and much much more! Whether you're tackling tough tracks in Tassie or chasing big barra up North, the BCFing Experts have the know-how to make your next outdoor adventure a pearler
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