DO NOT REMOVE PRIOR TO SALE! OWNER’S …s7d1.scene7.com/is/content/Coleman/Web/Stearns/Stearns...

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1 DO NOT REMOVE PRIOR TO SALE! OWNER’S MANUAL Model No. 1339 and 1341 I. APPROVAL CONDITIONS and CARRIAGE REGULATIONS This inflatable PFD is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard for use as a Type V Humidity Sensitive Personal Flotation Device (PFD) with Type II performance. IT IS APPROVED ONLY WHEN WORN. It is not approved for water skiing or other high impact, high speed activities. This inflatable PFD was designed to be more comfortable and less restrictive to wear than inherently buoyant PFD’s. When worn, used, and serviced according to this owner’s manual, this PFD can greatly increase your chances of survival in the water. Not recommended for non-swimmers or weak swimmers. Users of inflatable PFD’s must be at least 16 years old. See page 2 for CONDITIONS FOR THIS TYPE V APPROVAL.

Transcript of DO NOT REMOVE PRIOR TO SALE! OWNER’S …s7d1.scene7.com/is/content/Coleman/Web/Stearns/Stearns...

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DO NOT REMOVE PRIOR TO SALE!

OWNER’S MANUAL

Model No. 1339 and 1341

I. APPROVAL CONDITIONS and CARRIAGE REGULATIONS

This inflatable PFD is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard foruse as a Type V Humidity Sensitive Personal Flotation Device(PFD) with Type II performance. IT IS APPROVED ONLYWHEN WORN. It is not approved for water skiing or other highimpact, high speed activities. This inflatable PFD was designedto be more comfortable and less restrictive to wear thaninherently buoyant PFD’s. When worn, used, and servicedaccording to this owner’s manual, this PFD can greatlyincrease your chances of survival in the water. Notrecommended for non-swimmers or weak swimmers. Usersof inflatable PFD’s must be at least 16 years old.

See page 2 for CONDITIONS FOR THIS TYPE V APPROVAL.

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CONDITIONS FOR THIS TYPE V APPROVAL

This manual/automatic inflatable PFD is approved for use as asubstitute for a Type II PFD ONLY WHEN WORN.

Conditional approvals are granted by the Coast Guard for PFDsthat:1. Do not meet all the requirements for approval under the

Type I through IV categories but offer other significantsafety features, or

2. Have features or uses not found in Type I through IV PFDsthat require special user knowledge.

The conditions let the user overcome design traits that wouldotherwise prevent approval.

“Approved Only When Worn”:This PFD has the, “Approved Only When Worn”, condition onits approval because if it is not worn whenever above deckand underway, it is less likely to be in working order andcannot be counted as a PFD to meet the carriage requirementson your boat.

This manual/automatic inflatable PFD requires more frequentchecks than ones that are inherently buoyant or have manualinflation. Wearing this PFD will:1. Provide it the extra attention associated with use,2. Help you address its disadvantages, and3. Increase safety enormously because you have it when

needed.

Read the discussion under SPECIAL CONSIDERATION FOR THEMANUAL/AUTOMATIC INFLATOR ON THIS PFD and understandits implications on your safety.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION FOR THE MANUAL/AUTOMATICINFLATOR ON THIS PFD

Premature automatic inflation creates several risks that youmust address to avoid drowning. The PFD might not be armedwhen needed, either knowingly or unknowingly. Much lesscommon, but also important, are:1. Double inflation could damage the PFD,2. Inflation when stored in a tight space could damage the

PFD, and

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3. The PFD could inflate when you are in an awkward placeor position.

Owners of inflatable PFDs must understand the uniquecharacteristics of these products so that they can use themsafely.

You must learn how to properly arm the PFD.Why: An improperly armed mechanism may not inflate the

chamber. This PFD will not float you without beinginflated.

You must check the status of the mechanism and the CO2

cylinder before each outing. If the cylinder cap is punctured therewill be no gas to inflate the PFD. Also, if the cylinder is deformedin any way, there may not be gas to inflate the PFD.

Why: This PFD will not float you unless it can be inflated.Why: Are you sure that no one else inflated the PFD

recently and did not replace the cylinder?Why: Premature inflations that occur on a stored product

may go unnoticed since the CO2 gas will permeate thechamber fabric within a few days, leaving a deflatedchamber.

Why: U.S. Coast Guard studies have shown highpercentages of unserviceable inflatable PFDs withused cylinders in them when used by recreationalboaters.

In addition to inspecting the mechanism and cylinder before eachouting you must periodically check the other components of thePFD. This would include the chamber, webbing, buckles andthread.

Why: The chamber may get punctured, or abraded to thepoint where it will not stay inflated.

Why: Over time these components can wear out and not bestrong enough to perform their intended functionwhen needed.

Premature or unexpected inflation of automatic devices may occurin high heat and humidity storage conditions or when exposed tosevere conditions such as being innundated by water from wavesbreaking on deck. Premature inflation creates risks you mustaddress.

Why: Inflation when stored in a tight space could damagethe PFD.

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Why: The PFD could inflate when you are in an awkwardplace or position.

Why: Automatic inflation after oral inflation could damagethe PFD.

Do not try to alter or modify the mechanism. If you are dissatisfiedwith the humidity resistance or other performance of this product,contact Stearns, Inc. at 1-800-783-2767.

Why: Altering the mechanism may result in the failure of thedevice to inflate and provide the necessary buoyancyto float you.

Why: Altering the PFD will void the U.S. Coast Guardapproval for meeting recreational boating carriagerequirements.

You must carry rearming kits to meet the needs of expectedconditions of your boating trip. Stearns recommends a minimumof two cylinders, pins, and pills.

Why: If the mechanism is actuated, it must be properlyrearmed prior to using it again.

Why: To meet the carriage requirements the device must beproperly armed, unless worn inflated.

Please read the entire owner’s manual for more details aboutthe use and care of this Inflatable PFD.

II. MANDATORY CARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS

Federal regulations in 33 CFR 175-1993 require you to carryCoast Guard approved personal flotation devices (PFDs)legibly marked with the Coast Guard approval number whichare in good and serviceable condition and are the correct sizefor each person on board. To be considered serviceable, thisPFD shall not exhibit deterioration that could diminish itsperformance such as broken or deformed hardware, detachedwebbing, rotted structural components, air leaks, ornonfunctional oral inflation tube. Unless worn inflated, this PFDmust also be properly armed with a full CO2 cylinder, inflationsystem status indicator, and an accessible manual inflationlanyard. A PFD which is “approved only when worn” or“required to be worn” must be worn under the specifiedconditions. See CONDITIONS FOR THIS TYPE V APPROVALpage 2 for specific approval conditions of this PFD.

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III. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

SPECIFICATIONS:Chest Size: 30 – 52 inches (76 - 132 cm)Weight Range: more than 90 pounds (40 kg)Age Range: 16 years of age and olderBuoyancy (minimum): 33.7 Pounds (150 Newtons) when fully inflatedInflation System:

Manual/Automatic Inflation Mechanism (located on your right side)Oral Tube (located on your left side)Pull Tab (located on your right side) used to manually activate the

inflation mechanism and inflate the PFD.CO2 Cylinder: 33 gram, 1/2 inch thread as provided in Replacement Kit

0920 and 0923

Indicators: There are three indicators: A, B, and C on the inflationmechanism. For the PFD to be fully armed all three indicators must begreen and the CO2 cylinder condition checked.

PRE-DONNING INSTRUCTIONS

CHECK THE FOLLOWING BEFORE EACH USE OR OUTING:

1. INSPECT PFD FOR DAMAGE2. EXAMINE THE THREE INFLATION MECHANISM STATUS

INDICATORS3. EXAMINE CO2 CYLINDER CAP FOR PUNCTURE HOLE.

IF PUNCTURED OR DEFORMED, REPLACE THE CYLINDER.

READ BELOW FOR MORE DETAILED INFORMATION!

1. Inspecting Your PFD For Damage

Make sure that the PFD is free from rips, tears or punctures. Thistype of damage on the outside covering indicates that the InflatableChamber may have been exposed to potentially damaging elements.If these defects expose the yellow inflatable chamber material,discontinue use of the PFD until you have the PFD inspected by anauthorized repair facility. If these defects are noticed but the yellowinflatable chamber material is not exposed, the Inflatable Chambershould be checked for leaks. The Inflatable Chamber should alsobe checked for leaks at the beginning of each season and at leastevery two months during the boating season. The leak testprocedure is described under USER'S INSPECTION. (Refer to page11.)

2. Where and How to Check the Pill (Water Sensing Element)

Examine the inflation mechanism status indicators. The InflationMechanism Status Indicators will tell you if the inflation mechanism isproperly ARMED/REARMED and ready for activation.

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The indicators are located on the mechanism at points A, Band C, as shown on Rearming Instructions on the back coverof this book. The mechanism itself is located on the PFD onthe wearer’s right side.

Indicator A shows the status of the manual activating lever.Be sure indicator Green Pin goes through both the plastichousing and the metal activating lever.

Indicator B indicates whether a water sensing pill is in place.If this indicator is red, there is no pill in place and themechanism cannot be armed for manual or automatic inflationuntil the pill is inserted.

Indicator C indicates whether the cylinder has been screwedin far enough. Note: this does NOT indicate the full or emptystatus of the CO2 cylinder, but only that the CO2 cylinder isproperly seated.The color of all Status Indicators have a standard meaning:

GREEN = OK = READYRED = MECHANISM NOT PROPERLY ARMED = NOT READY

See Rearming Instructions on back cover of this book.The presence of a water sensing pill can be checked bylooking at Indicator B. The pill itself should be checkedregularly. To examine water sensing pill, lift cocking lever toexpose pill and remove. If pill is cracked or otherwisedamaged, replace with fresh pill.

3. Examine Your CO2 Cylinder

The CO2 cylinder contains the gas charge that will inflate yourPFD when the inflation mechanism is fired either automaticallyor manually. You must verify that the CO2 cylinder installed isof the correct size and has not been previously fired. T oexamine the cylinder, you must Unscrew it and visuallyexamine the cap (the flat surface on the threaded end). Thereare no indicators to show that the CO2 cylinder is full. Thecylinder needs to be replaced if there is any visible damageon the flat surface. See the product SPECIFICATIONSsection on page 5 of this manual to determine the proper sizecylinder. Proper cylinder size includes both thread size andCO2 gram weight. If the cylinder is OK, you must properlyscrew it back into the mechanism. If the cylinder is damaged,discard and install a new, undamaged cylinder into themechanism.

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Addi tiona l Note s on CO 2 Cyl inders :• FAILURE t o proper ly rearm t he in fla t ion mechanism

pr ior t o inst a l l ing t he CO2 Cy linder wi ll resul t inpremat ure ac tiv at ion of t he c y linder.

• CO2 Cy linders are only good f or one in fla t ion andc annot be recharged.

• CO2 Cy linders are made wi th a prot ec t iv e c oat ing t hatmay wear of f a f t er a period of us e or ex pos ure t o t heenvi ronment . When t h is c oat ing is worn of f, t he CO2

Cy linder may s t ar t t o s how s ome s igns of rust ing. I ft h is oc curs , replac e t he CO2 Cy linder.

• I f a gram s c ale (s uc h as a post a l s c ale) is av ai lab le,i t is recommended t o weigh t he c y linder t o v eri f y t hati t meet s t he minimum weight impr in t ed on t he c y linder.

DONNING INSTRUCTIONS

STEP 1

Wear like a jacket, inserting armsbetween straps and fabric.

STEP 2

Close front buckle. Manual pulllanyard should be visible on yourlower right side.

STEP 3

Adjust waist strap through slidelocated on right side untilcomfortably snug fit is obtained.Tuck free end of belt under waiststrap.

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A f ter donning, locate the Jerk To Infl a te tab f or themechanism. It should protrude f rom the PFD as show non the pictogram. Make sure that you are comf or tablelocating the Jerk To Infl a te tab w ith either hand.Should an emergency develop, be prepared to use it!A lw ays w ear your PFD over , not under c lothing.Caut ion: bulky c lothing may af fec t the ability of thisPFD to turn the w earer to a f ace-up posit ion in thew ater .

Prac tice c los ing hardw are and adjus ting s trapsbefore use or pr ior to in-w ater testing (page 14).

INFLATED DONNING INSTRUCTIONS

Inf latable PFDs can be very diff icult to don w hen f ullyinflated. Deflate through the Oral Tube until enoughgas has escaped to don. See DEFLA TIONINSTRUCTIONS on page 9. Don as desc r ibed aboveand re-inf late orally as desc r ibed below .

INFLATION INSTRUCTIONS

1. Manual Inflation - To inflate, grasp the Jerk to Inflate taband pull sharply downwards.

2. Automatic Inflation – The automatic Inflation Mechanism willactivate when the device is totally immersed in water.Depending upon temperature, the device will obtain fullbuoyancy within 5 to 10 seconds. It is recommended that theuser regard the automatic system as a backup and always beprepared to pull the Jerk to Inflate tab upon immersion.

3. Oral Inflation - The Oral Tube is located on the wearer's leftside. Grasp the Oral Tube and bring to mouth. Blow airthrough the Oral Tube until the Inflatable Chamber is firm. Ifthe chamber becomes soft due to CO2 permeance, OralInflation will be necessary to maintain full buoyancy.

4. Cold Inflation - Oral Inflation may be required in addition tomanual or automatic inflation if chamber is not firm due to coldtemperatures at or below 40° F (4° C). Inflation time usingCO2 gas will be longer at these temperatures. Activation ofautomatic system may also be slower. Always be preparedto use the manual inflation system! See FREEZINGTEMPERATURES on page 10.

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5. Other Inflation Precautions

• Caut ion : Do not fully inflate orally then manually orautomatically inflate with the CO2 cylinder. Repeated CO2

inflation after oral inflation will damage the PFD to the pointthat it will not hold air or float.

• Never inflate this PFD with a Pump or Air-Compressor.

• Permeation loss is greater when the device is inflated withCO2 than with air, and earlier replenishment by means of theoral inflation system will therefore be necessary.

REARMING AND INDICATOR CHECK INSTRUCTIONS

The back cover of this manual prov ides the REARMINGand INDICA TOR CHECK INSTRUCTIONS f or themechanism on your PFD.

DEFLATION INSTRUCTIONS

Depress Oral Valve (located inside end of Oral Tube) usingeither the protective cap or tab provided by inserting into theend of Oral Tube, see drawing. Gently compress air out ofthe inflatable chamber while depressing the Oral Valve.

DO NOT TWIST OR WRING INFLATABLE CHAMBER TO DEFLATE.

If for any reason the Oral Valve remains open, depress itseveral times. If it does not release, discontinue use of thisPFD and take it to a certified repair station.

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(See page 13 for repair station locations/information.) In anemergency situation, hold thumb over the valve if it will notclose.

Refer to the back inside cover for REPACKINGINSTRUCTIONS.

FREEZING TEMPERATURES

At or below 40° F (4° C) automatic activation and inflation timewith CO2 gas will be longer. Wearing a partially inflated PFD inthese conditions will provide some initial buoyancy while thePFD fully inflates.Caution: Do not fully inflate orally and then inflate with theCO2 cylinder. Repeated CO2 inflation after oral inflation willdamage the PFD to the point that it will not hold air or float.

OTHER USE GUIDELINES

1. Always wear your PFD when underway unless you are insidea cabin.

2. If you need to jump from any height always fold arms overyour chest to keep the PFD in place when entering the water.

3. Avoid all unnecessary activities that will be abrasive to thedevice.

4. Use extreme caution around sharp objects.

5. Avoid unnecessary exposure to the sunlight. See GENERALPRODUCT LIFE EXPECTANCY on page 11.

6. CO2 gas from the cylinder will permeate through the chamberfabric over time. If you are in the water for a long time, it maybe necessary to top off the inflatable orally, by blowing air inthrough the oral tube.

7. Inflatable PFDs are not designed for activities in which thewearer expects to encounter impact with the water at a highspeed such as water skiing, riding personal water craft, etc.

8. Inflatable PFDs are not designed for white water activities.

9. For Inflatable PFDs that have a manual-auto inflator, droppingthe PFD into the water or exposing the inflation system tounnecessary water spray, will result in an inadvertent inflation.

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IV. IS YOUR PFD IN GOOD AND SERVICEABLECONDITION?

Check your PFD between outings to be sure that it is properlyarmed; that it is free of rips, tears or holes; that all seams aresecurely sewn; and that the fabric, straps and hardware arestill strong. Inspect the inflatable portion of the PFD inaccordance with Care and Maintenance Instructions.

V. CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

GENERAL PRODUCT LIFE EXPECTANCY

The reliability and service life of this PFD depends greatly uponhow it is used and cared for. Avoid storing PFD in directsunlight. Sunlight contains ultraviolet radiation that weakenssynthetic materials. Prolonged exposures to high temperaturesand high humidity may shorten service life of this PFD. While itis known that these elements degrade the materials, every useenvironment is unique so there is no sure way to estimate howlong the PFD will last. It is for this reason that you must followthe care and cleaning instructions and perform themaintenance and service checks. This will assure that the PFDremains functional and will maximize the useful life of this PFD.Failure to follow these instructions rigorously could result in anon-functioning PFD causing injury or death.

INSPECTION

User's Inspection - The users should perform the followingchecks before each season, or before a long journey, orbefore each outing, as recommended below:

1. Physical Inspection of Cover and Straps - Examine outershell fabric, seams, webbing attachments, buckles, slides, etc.Fabric fading can indicate a loss of strength. Check forstrength by pulling seams and attachments snugly. If deviceshows any signs of damage, return to a certified RepairFacility or replace the entire device. This inspection should beperformed each outing.

2. Leak Test - This test should be performed every two monthsand at the start of each season. Inflate buoyancy chamberusing the oral inflation valve and leave to rest for 16 hours.When buoyancy chamber remains firm and full of air there is

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no leakage and chamber is in operational condition. If thechamber deflates, immediately bring to a Stearns certifiedRepair Facility for repair. The device is no longer inoperational condition.

3. Automatic Inflation System – This test should be performedduring years when the PFD is not inspected by a certifiedrepair facility. With device packed as normal, immerse thedevice into a tub of water and see if it inflates. DRY, REARMand REPACK as shown on back cover of pamphlet.

4. Function Test of Oral Valve - Remove the dust protectioncap. With the PFD inflated, test the valve by pushing it downusing the tab provided on the cap (refer to page 9). The valveshould depress easily, and when released it shouldautomatically return to the closed position and reseal.

REARMING OF INFLATOR MECHANISM

Use Replacement Kit No. 0920 and 0923. See RearmingInstructions on back cover for details.

CARE AND CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS

Drying – If the device is wet, place on a coat hanger to allowthorough drying. Do not place in direct sunlight to dry. Do notuse any heat source or place on radiator.

Cleaning – Damp wipe only with mild detergent recommendedfor synthetic fabrics. Remove grease and oil immediately.After every use, remove pill (prior to rinsing) and rinse wellwith fresh water. Read instructions provided on the device.

• DO NOT MACHINE WASH• DO NOT MACHINE DRY• DO NOT DRY CLEAN• DO NOT USE SOLVENT BASED CLEANERS• DO NOT BLEACH

STORAGE

• STORE YOUR PILLS (WATER SENSING ELEMENTS)IN A VENTILATED PACKAGE, DO NOT STORE IN ASEALED CONTAINER.

• STORE IN CLEAN, COOL, DRY AREA.

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• DO NOT STORE PILLS (WATER SENSING ELEMENTS)IN HIGH HUMIDITY OR HIGH TEMPERATURES (OVER100°F) FOR AN EXTENDED TIME.

• DO NOT STORE PILLS (WATER SENSING ELEMENTS)FOR MORE THAN 18 MONTHS BEFORE USE.

REPAIR

If you have any question about the condition or integrityof this product call 1-800-STEARNS (1-800-783-2767).A damaged device must be discarded.

SERVICING

Stearns strongly recommends that this device beinspected at least every 24 months by a certifiedStearns Repair Facility or STEARNS Inc. Call 1-800-STEARNS (1-800-783-2767) for your nearest authorizedStearns Repair Facility.

REARMING COMPONENTS

Unused components for the inflation mechanismshould be inspected and/or replaced annually.

VI. WHY ARE PFDS REQUIRED SAFETY EQUIPMENT?

Drownings are the leading cause of fatalities involvingrecreational boating. A PFD provides flotation to help keepyour head above water, help you to stay face up in the water,and increase your chances for survival and rescue. Mostadults only need an extra 7 to 12 pounds (31 to 53 Newtons)of flotation to keep their heads above water. The proper sizePFD will properly support the weight of the wearer.

Since this inflatable PFD does not have inherent buoyancy, itprovides flotation only when inflated. Familiarize yourself withthe use of this PFD so that you will know what to do in anemergency.

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VII. HOW AND WHY TO TEST YOUR PFD?Inflate your PFD and try it out in the water to:

• Make sure it floats you:Comfortably

(When worn properly)Adequately for expected wave conditions

(Body shapes/densities affect performance)• Make sure it works:

A flow of bubbles should not appear(See Section V for leak tests)

It should inflate quick and easily• Learn how it works by:

Activating the CO2 inflation systemRearming the CO2 inflation systemUsing the Oral inflator tube

The U.S. Coast Guard recommends that you purchase twoautomatic rearming kits; one to be used immediately in testing theautomatic inflation system (see HOW DO YOU TEST YOUR PFDUSING THE AUTOMATIC INFLATOR?) and the other to carry onboard as a spare.Since you should replace the pill (water sensing element) eachyear, the U.S. Coast Guard recommends you test the automaticinflation system in-the-water at the beginning of each boatingseason. By doing this, you demonstrate that the automaticinflation system is still working properly and reduce the likelihoodof premature inflation and its associated dangers. The only checkof the manual inflation system (with CO2 cylinder and greenindicator tab removed) would be to determine that the lever armand piercing pin move freely when moving the lever (attached tothe pull tab) several times down and up.

HOW DO YOU TEST YOUR PFD USING THE AUTOMATICINFLATOR?1. To test your inflatable PFD, you will need:

• Your fully armed PFD, and• Rearming kit approved for your PFD.

2. Put on the PFD.3. Get into shallow water, just deep enough that you can

stand with your head above the surface. Once theautomatic inflator is under water the PFD shouldautomatically, fully inflate within 10 seconds.

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4. See if the PFD will float you on your back or just slightlyback of vertical. In a relaxed floating position, verify thatyour mouth is well above the water's surface. Note theeffect of where you hold your legs on how you float.

5. Get out of the water and remove the PFD. Remove theused CO2 cylinder and the used pill from the PFD inflator.Deflate the PFD using the oral inflator.

6. Let the PFD dry thoroughly. REARM and REPACK the PFDin accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions!

HOW DO YOU TEST YOUR PFD USING THE MANUALINFLATOR?

1. To test your inflatable PFD, you will need:• Your fully armed PFD, and• Rearming kit approved for your PFD. (This kit

contains a water sensing pill that you will need to usefollowing this test.)

2. Put on the PFD.

3. Actuate the inflation system by jerking firmly downward onthe pull tab. The PFD should fully inflate within 5 seconds.

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4. Get into shallow water, just deep enough that you canstand with your head above the surface.

5. See if the PFD will float you on your back or just slightlyback of vertical. In a relaxed floating position, verify thatyour mouth is well above the water’s surface. Note theeffect of where you hold your legs on how you float.

6. Get out of the water and remove the PFD. Remove theused CO2 cylinder from the PFD inflator. Completely deflatethe PFD using the oral inflator.

7. Let the PFD dry thoroughly. REARM and REPACK the PFDin accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions!

HOW DO YOU TEST YOUR PFD USING THE ORALINFLATOR

1. To test your inflatable PFD, you will not need any spareparts or rearming kits.

2. Remove the CO2 cylinder and pill, to prevent inadvertentactivation of the manual inflation system which couldpotentially damage the PFD. Inspect the threaded end toconfirm it is un-used.

3. Put on the PFD.

4. Get into shallow water, just deep enough that you canstand with your head above the surface.

5. If you are a weak swimmer or non-swimmer, inflate thePFD partially so that you are supported well enough to beable to complete inflation without touching bottom, eitherorally or manually. Note this level of inflation because it isthe minimum needed for you to safely use this inflatablePFD.

6. Fully inflate the PFD using the oral inflator.

7. See if the PFD will float you on your back or just slightlyback of vertical. In a relaxed floating position, verify thatyour mouth is well above the water's surface. Note theeffect of where you hold your legs on how you float.

8. Get out of the water and remove the PFD. Completelydeflate the PFD using the oral inflator.

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9. Let the PFD dry thoroughly. REARM and REPACK the PFDin accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions!

VIII. WEAR YOUR PFD

In approximately 80 percent of all boating fatalities, the victimswere not wearing a PFD. Most fatal accidents happen on calmsunny days. This inflatable PFD is much more comfortable towear than other PFD types. Get into the habit of wearing thisPFD. Non-swimmers and children especially should wear ahybrid or non-inflatable PFD at all times when on or near thewater.

IX. HYPOTHERMIA

Prolonged exposure to cold water causes a condition knownas hypothermia --- a substantial loss of body heat which leadsto exhaustion and unconsciousness. Most drowning victimsfirst suffer from hypothermia. The following chart shows theeffects of hypothermia:

HOW HYPOTHERMI A AFFECTS MOST ADULTS

Water Temperature °C °(F)

Exhaustion orUnconsciousness

Expected Timeof Survival

0.3

0.3 TO 4

4 TO 10

10 TO 16

16 TO 21

21 TO 27

Over 27

(32.5)

(32.5 to 40)

(40 to 50)

(50 to 60)

(60 to 70)

(70 to 80)

(Over 80)

UNDER 15 MIN

15 TO 30 MIN

30 TO 60 MIN

1 TO 2 HOURS

2 TO 7 HOURS

2 TO 12 HOURS

INDEFINITE

UNDER 15 TO 45 MIN

30 TO 90 MIN

1 TO 3 HOURS

1 TO 6 HOURS

2 TO 40 HOURS

3 HOURS TO INDEFINITE

INDEFINITE

PFDs can increase survival time because they allow you tofloat without using energy treading water and because of theirinsulating properties. Naturally, the warmer the water, the lessinsulation you will require. When operating in cold waters[below 60°F (15.6 °C)] you should consider using a coat or

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jacket style PFD or a Type V Thermal Protective PFD as theycover more of the body than the vest or belt style PFDs.

Some Points to Remember About HypothermiaProtection:

1. Always wear your PFD. Even if you become incapacitated dueto hypothermia, the PFD will keep you afloat and greatlyimprove your chances of rescue.

2. Do not attempt to swim unless it is to reach a nearby craft,fellow survivor, or a floating object on which you can lean orclimb. Swimming increases the rate of body heat loss. In coldwater, drown-proofing methods that require putting your headin the water are not recommended. Keep your head out ofthe water. This will greatly lessen heat loss and increase yoursurvival time.

3. Use the standard H.E.L.P. position when wearing aninflatable PFD. Wrap your arms around your torso, under thePFD, and draw your legs up to a seated position. Doing sowill help you conserve body heat.

4. Keep a positive attitudeabout your survival andrescue. This will improveyour chances of extendingyour survival time untilrescued. Your will-to-livedoes make a difference!

5. If there is more than oneperson in the water,huddling is recommendedwhile waiting to be rescued.This action tends to reducethe rate of heat loss andthus increase the survivaltime.

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X. EACH OF THESE DEVICES IS INTENDED TO HELPYOU SAVE YOUR OWN LIFE

For your PFD to function properly, follow thesesuggestions to verify that it fits, floats, and remains ingood condition.

1. Check cylinder cap to be sure it has not beenpunctured, before each use.

2. Check the inflation mechanism status indicatorsbefore each use.

3. Get in the habit of rearming the inflation mechanismright after each inflation.

4. This PFD requires rearming with a new cylinder, pilland indicators after each inflation. Always haverearming kits to service your inflatable PFDs.

5. Try your wearable PFD on and adjust it until it fitscomfortably in and out of the water.

6. Mark your PFD with your name if you are the onlywearer.

7. Do not alter your PFD. If it doesn't fit properly, getone that does. An altered device is no longer CoastGuard approved.

8. Your PFD is not intended for use as a fender orkneeling pad.

9. If your PFD is wet, allow it to dry thoroughly beforestoring it. Store it in a well-ventilated area.

10. Do not dry your PFD in front of a radiator or othersource of direct heat.

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XI. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONIf you need more information about PFDs and saferecreational boating, contact your state boatingauthority, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. PowerSquadron, Red Cross, or your nearest unit of the U.S.Coast Guard; or call the Coast Guard CustomerInfoLine at 1-800-368-5647 or the Free Boating Coursenumber 1-800-336-BOAT (in VA, 1-800-245-BOAT) orsee the USCG Boat ing Web Page atwww.uscgboating.org.

DO NOT ATTACH PFD'S TO YOUR BOAT

Each PFD has straps, hooks, buckles, or other meansfor securing the device in place on the wearer. SomePFDs also incorporate decorative dee rings or tabs.Such items are not to be used to attach the device to theboat. Attaching the device to the boat will not permit it toperform as intended.

CO2 PERMEATION LOSS

CO2 gas will permeate the chamber fabric over time.Oral Inflation will be necessary to maintain fullbuoyancy.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THE INITIALARMING, REARMING, REPACKING, OR NEARESTAUTHORIZED STEARNS REPAIR FACILITY CALL

1-800-STEARNS (1-800-783-2767).

PRODUCT REGISTRATION:PLEASE MAIL REGISTRATION CARD OR CALL

1-800-STEARNS (1-800-783-2767)IN ORDER TO RECEIVE IMPORTANT UPDATES ON THIS PFD.

21

REPACKING INSTRUCTIONS

Always deflate the PFD and rearm the Inflation Mechanism--- follow REARMING Instructions prior to REPACKING!

4.

1. Lay device out flat with theyellow inflatable chamberup.

Fold right inside edge over asshown, exposing velcro strip.

2. Fold right outside edgeover, securing velcrostrips.

Position Jerk To Inflate Tabbelow bottom edge of PFD, asshown.

Fold left inside edge over,exposing velcro strip.

3. Fold left outside edgeover, securing velcrostrips.

Fold right top side over,exposing velcro strip.

Fold left top side over,securing velcro strips.

4. Snap back strap to shell.Secure ve lcro strapextensions. Examine allstraps, belt keepers,adjustment slides andbuckles to assure thatthey are free from twists.

Check to see that the Jerk ToInflate Tab is hanging free!

22

REARMING / STATUS INDICATOR INSTRUCTIONSSECUMATIC 3001S

(1) Hold the mechanism as shown in the pictureabove. Remove used Cylinder by twisting it in acounter-clockwise direction. Throw used Cylinder ingarbage.

(2) Carefully lift lever marked with the CAUTIONsymbol until you hear it “click”. Be careful not to letit snap down on your fingers.

(3) Carefully insert the Pill into the Pill holder.

(4) Close the Jerk Cord lever so it points toward theCylinder holder. The only part of the lever youshould be able to see is where it is attached to thecord.

(5) Insert Green Pin into the hole that is surroundedby red. Make sure the pin passes through the JerkCord lever also.

(6) Check CO2 cylinder. If the cap has a hole or isscratched, throw it away and get a new one that isnot damaged.

(7) Install the inspected cylinder, twisting it in aclockwise direction. Twist until the window under thecylinder (indicated by C in the illustration) turnsgreen.

(8) Close the lever marked with the CAUTIONsymbol. Be careful not to let it snap down on yourfingers.

(9) Review the Indicator Check instructions below.Make sure indicators at locations A, B, and C areGREEN. If you see any RED areas, try to rearmthe mechanism again – a step has been missed ordone incorrectly.

Use RE P L ACE M E NT K IT No . 0 9 2 0 a nd 0 9 2 3