Stearns Recreational 1341 - Manual (Page 11)

11
IV. IS YOUR PFD IN GOOD AND SERVICEABLE
CONDITION?
Check your PFD between outings to be sure that it is properly
armed; that it is free of rips, tears or holes; that all seams are
securely sewn; and that the fabric, straps and hardware are
still strong. Inspect the inflatable portion of the PFD in
accordance with Care and Maintenance Instructions.
V. CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
GENERAL PRODUCT LIFE EXPECTANCY
The reliability and service life of this PFD depends greatly upon
how it is used and cared for. Avoid storing PFD in direct
sunlight. Sunlight contains ultraviolet radiation that weakens
synthetic materials. Prolonged exposures to high temperatures
and high humidity may shorten service life of this PFD. While it
is known that these elements degrade the materials, every use
environment is unique so there is no sure way to estimate how
long the PFD will last. It is for this reason that you must follow
the care and cleaning instructions and perform the
maintenance and service checks. This will assure that the PFD
remains functional and will maximize the useful life of this PFD.
Failure to follow these instructions rigorously could result in a
non-functioning PFD causing injury or death.
INSPECTION
User's Inspection - The users should perform the following
checks before each season, or before a long journey, or
before each outing, as recommended below:
1. Physical Inspection of Cover and Straps - Examine outer
shell fabric, seams, webbing attachments, buckles, slides, etc.
Fabric fading can indicate a loss of strength. Check for
strength by pulling seams and attachments snugly. If device
shows any signs of damage, return to a certified Repair
Facility or replace the entire device. This inspection should be
performed each outing.
2. Leak Test - This test should be performed every two months
and at the start of each season. Inflate buoyancy chamber
using the oral inflation valve and leave to rest for 16 hours.
When buoyancy chamber remains firm and full of air there is