Mustang Survival MD3003 User manual

Owner’s Manual
MD3003 Inflatable PFD
Manual Inflation Model
USCG Approved Type V,
Approved Only When Worn,
Special Use Device
MD3031 Inflatable PFD
Manual with Automatic Backup Inflation Model
USCG Approved Type V,
Approved Only When Worn,
Special Use Device
www.mustangsurvival.com
3870 Mustang Way TOLL FREE 1.800.526.0532
Bellingham, WA EMAIL [email protected]
USA 98226
Mustang Survival and seahorse design is a registered trademark of Mustang Survival Corp.
Our commitment to quality has earned our Richmond facilities ISO 9001 registration,
the highest of all international standards. This is our guarantee you’re receiving the ultimate
in design and manufacturing.
HT-1099 Printed in Canada (Rev Dec 04)
WE SAVE LIVES FOR A LIVING

DO NOT REMOVE PRIOR TO SALE.
The MD3003 device will not inflate automatically upon
immersion. Tab must be pulled to activate inflation
mechanism.
APPROVAL CONDITIONS AND CARRIAGE
REGULATIONS
This inflatable PFD is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard for use as a Type
V Personal Flotation Device (PFD). 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 PFDs. 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 PFDs must be at least 16 years old.
A Type V PFD must be worn to count as an approved PFD.
FIGURE 1
MANDATORY CARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS
Federal regulations in 33 CFR 175-1993 require you to carry Coast Guard
approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) legibly marked with the Coast
Guard approval number which are in good and serviceable condition
and are the correct size for each person on board. To be considered
serviceable, this Inflatable PFD shall not exhibit deterioration that could
diminish its performance such as broken or deformed hardware, detached
webbing, rotted structural components, air leaks, or nonfunctional oral
inflation tube. Unless worn inflated, this Inflatable PFD must also be
properly armed with a full CO2 cylinder, inflation system status indicator,
CONTENTS
Page 1 Approval Conditions and Carriage Regulations
1 Mandatory Carriage Requirements
2 What is an Inflatable PFD?
2 Instructions for Use
2 Check Your Inflatable PFD Before Using It
4 Sizing and Fit
5 Donning Instructions
5 Inflating Your Inflatable PFD
7 Re-arming Your PFD After Manual Inflation (MD3003)
7 Special Considerations for Automatic Devices (MD3031)
8 Re-arming Your PFD as Manual (MD3031)
9 Re-arming Your PFD as Manual with Automatic
Backup (MD3031)
10 Deflating the Inflatable PFD
11 Repacking
12 Usage Below Freezing
12 Is Your PFD in Good and Servicable Condition?
12 Care and Maintenance Instructions
13 Mustang Accessories
13 Cleaning and Storing of Your Inflatable PFD (MD3003)
14 Cleaning and Storing of Your Inflatable PFD (MD3031)
14 Why are PFDs Required Safety Equipment?
14 How and Why to Test Your PFD
15 Model MD3003
15 Model MD3031
16 How Do You Test Your PFD Using the Manual Inflator?
(MD3031)
16 How Do You Test Your PFD Using the Automatic Inflator?
17 How Do You Test Your PFD Using the Oral Inflator?
18 Wear Your PFD
18 Hypothermia
19 Each of These Devices is Intended to Help You Save Your Own
Life
20 Do Not Attach PFD's to Your Boat
i Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual 1

proceeding (Fig. 6). If either of these conditions exist, the auto
cap must be re-screwed or the bobbin replaced! Ensure the
yellow manual cap is stowed in the accessory pocket (Fig. 14). A
spare cylinder (not supplied) may also be stored in this pocket.
CO2 Cylinder
Manual
Inflator
Lever In
Up-and-Ready
Position
Green
Indicator Pin
Lanyard
Pull Tab
Manual Inflation System (MD3003)
FIGURE 2
3) Make sure the manual lever is in the up-and-ready position and
insert the green indicator pin if not already in place. Make sure the
CO2 cylinder is screwed hand tight into the inflator (Fig. 2 for the
MD3003) (Fig. 6 for the MD3031).
4) Check that the oral-inflation dust cap is properly in the stowed
position (Fig. 5).
5) Refasten the chest flap Velcro™. Refer to the Repacking instructions
(p. 11). If everything checks out, your Inflatable PFD is ready for use.
and an accessible manual inflation lanyard. A PFD which is “approved
only when worn” or “required to be worn” must be worn under the
specified conditions.
WHAT IS AN INFLATABLE PFD?
While traditional PFDs are inherently buoyant, inflatable PFDs rely
entirely on inflation for buoyancy. Uninflated, the Inflatable PFD is a
comfortable slim collar that can be inflated at any time with a 33-gram
CO2 gas cylinder. The Inflatable PFD is designed to offer maximum
mobility with minimum bulk. The Inflatable PFD (MD3003) can be
inflated either manually by jerking a pull-tab, or orally (by mouth). The
Inflatable PFD (MD3031) can be inflated either automatically during
water immersion, manually by jerking a pull-tab, or orally by mouth. It is
recommended that you familiarize yourself with the procedures outlined
in INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE (p. 2).
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
This manual supplies instructional, maintenance and safety information
for both models (MD3003 and MD3031) unless specified otherwise. The
model number is listed on the underside label.
Check Your Inflatable PFD Before Using It
After purchasing your Inflatable PFD, make sure it has an unused 33
gram CO2 cylinder attached to the inflator mechanism (Fig. 2 for the
MD3003) (Fig. 6 for the MD3031).
Check the components and how to assemble the inflator by following
these steps:
1) Undo the Velcro™ tabs on the wearer’s right-hand side of the collar
to expose the inflator (Fig. 3).
2) Unscrew and remove the CO2 gas cylinder from the inflator and
inspect its small end. If it is pierced (Fig. 4), replace it!
For the MD3031 - Examine the auto cap. Ensure that the cap is
screwed hand tight onto the inflator. If a day-glow red spring has
been exposed the auto capsule mechanism has been fired or is
incorrectly screwed on (Fig. 8). If required, replace the bobbin before
2 Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual 3
W
1
R
FIGURE 3
Dust cap
in deflation
position
Dust cap
in stowed
position
FIGURE 5
FIGURE 4

Donning Instructions
It is important that the PFD is properly adjusted to fit the person wearing
it. An incorrect fit or improper fastening of attachments could impede its
effectiveness.
1) All belts and straps are already threaded correctly and only need to
be adjusted for fit. The waist belt should fit securely.
FIGURE 9
2) Put the Inflatable PFD on just like a jacket (Fig. 9) and fasten the
front buckle. Adjust the waist belt using the side buckle on the belt
and secure the belt ’s loose end in the belt loop.
Warning: Do not wear Inflatable PFDs under clothing as the
inflation could be restricted or you could be injured.
3) The Inflatable PFD may optionally be equipped with two toggles (one
on either side). Each toggle is designed to be secured to similarly
positioned loops on leading brands of sailing jackets. If the toggle/
loop attachment is used, be sure to check the fit with garments in an
in-water test (see How and Why to Test Your PFD p. 14). This allows
you to combine the Inflatable PFD and your jacket into an easy-to-
use piece of equipment.
Inflating Your Inflatable PFD
Practise inflating the device. It is recommended that the following
procedures are followed to inflate your Inflatable PFD:
1) Manual inflation
Actuate the inflation system by jerking firmly downward on the pull
tab. The PFD should fully inflate within 5 seconds (Fig. 10 for the
CO2 Cylinder
Auto/Manual
Inflator Lever In
Up-and-Ready
Position
Bobbin
Lanyard
Spring-Loaded
Plunger
Cap
Pull Tab
Auto
Capsule
Manual/Automatic
Inflation System (MD3031)
Green
Indicator Pin
FIGURE 6
Green
Indicator
Pin
Piercing
Pin
Manual/Automatic Model (MD3031)
Pull
Down
FIGURE 7
Red
Spring
Green
Indicator
MD3031
FIGURE 8
Sizing and Fit
The PFD provides 33.7 lbs of buoyancy and is designed for wearers with
a chest range of 30-52 inches weighing over 80 pounds.
4 Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual 5

MD3003, Fig. 11 for the MD3031).
MD3003 Manual Inflation
FIGURE 10
2) Oral inflation
Properly armed and inspected, manual Inflatable PFD models will
inflate. However, should inflation not occur, or in a non-emergency
situation, you can fully inflate the PFD by mouth (Fig. 12). To orally
inflate the PFD, first locate the oral inflation tube by opening the
wearer ’s left front panel of the PFD. Then remove the dust cap from
the end of the oral tube and blow into the tube until the PFD is fully
inflated.
3) Automatic backup inflation (MD3031)
Inflation will occur automatically within seconds after the inflator
is immersed in water. The water-sensing bobbin will disintegrate,
triggering a spring-loaded plunger, which punctures the CO2 cylinder
to inflate the cell (Fig. 4).
FIGURE 12
6 Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual 7
Information for both models: The carbon dioxide used to
inflate PFDs will slowly permeate through the fabric cell over
time. A slight reduction of pressure will be observed after
several hours of inflation. Topping up by oral inflation may be
required in the event of very prolonged immersion.
Re-arming Your PFD After Manual Inflation (MD3003)
Manual Model
Green
Indicator
Pin
Piercing
Pin
Lever
FIGURE 13
1) Unscrew and inspect the CO2 cylinder. If used or damaged, discard
the CO2 cylinder (Fig. 4).
2) Check the manual lever to ensure it is in the up and ready position
with the green indicator pin properly installed. If the green indicator
pin is missing or damaged, replace it (Fig. 2).
3) Install an unused CO2 cylinder by screwing it into the top of the
inflator and hand-tighten. Do not over-tighten, as this can damage
the internal gasket.
4) Refold the PFD in accordance with the Repacking instructions (p. 11).
Your PFD is now ready for use.
Special Consideration for Automatic Devices (MD3031)
Premature automatic inflation causes several risks that you must address
to avoid drowning. The PFD might not be armed when needed, either
knowingly or unknowningly. Much less common but also important are:
1) Double inflation (CO2 cylinder inflation after full oral inflation) could
damage the PFD,
2) Inflation when stored in a tight space could damage the PFD, and
3) The PFD could inflate when you are in an awkward place or position.
Inadvertant inflation may occur in certain conditions, including when the
MD3031 Manual Inflation
FIGURE 11

MANUAL
INFLATION
ONLY
FIGURE 14
6) Install the yellow Manual Cap on the base of the inflator and hand-
tighten.
7) Place the hang-tag (connected by a webbing tape to the bottom of
the yellow Manual Cap) to the inside of the right cover of the PFD so
it will hang exposed on the outside of the PFD (Fig. 15). EXACTLY in
the position as shown.
FIGURE 15
8) Check the manual lever to ensure it is in the up and ready position
with the green indicator pin properly installed. If the green indicator
pin is missing or damaged, replace it (Fig. 2).
9) Install an unused CO2 cylinder by screwing it into the top of the
inflator and hand-tighten. Do not over-tighten as this can damage
the internal gasket.
10) Refold the PFD in accordance with the Repacking instructions (p. 11).
Your Inflatable PFD is now ready for manual use only.
Re-arming Your PFD as Manual with Automatic Backup
(MD3031)
1) Unscrew and inspect the CO2 cylinder. If used or damaged, discard
the CO2 cylinder (Fig. 4).
device is:
· Subjected to splashing
· In high humidity
· In heavy fog
· In the rain
Care and attention should be taken to ensure that when the device
is used in these types of conditions, auto-inflation does not occur
inadvertantly.
If this Inflatable PFD (MD3031) should inflate prematurely, a re-arm kit
(MA7172) is required to re-arm the device.
Important: The Inflatable PFD should be re-armed according to
the instructions (Re-arming Your PFD as Manual or as Manual with
Automatic Backup (MD3031)).
The automatic inflator bobbin should be replaced at least once every
twelve months.
Re-arming Your PFD as Manual (MD3031)
The following instructions are applicable if you intend to convert your
Inflatable PFD from automatic to manual inflation; for use where heavy
moisture/spray may inadvertently trigger automatic inflation.
1) Unscrew and inspect the CO2 cylinder.
If used or damaged, discard the CO2 cylinder (Fig. 4).
2) If the PFD was previously armed for MANUAL USE and now only
requires re-arming, skip to step 8.
3) Unscrew and remove the auto cap (see step 5 for storage) (Fig. 6).
4) Remove and inspect the bobbin. If the bobbin is used, damaged, or
4 or more years old, discard it. Store the bobbin in a cool dry area
when not in use.
5) Remove the yellow manual cap from the pocket located under the
left cover of the inflatable cell. Place the auto cap in the pocket for
future use (Fig. 14).
8 Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual 9

Cap In
Deflate
Position
FIGURE 16
2) Gently squeeze the Inflatable PFD until all air or gas has been
expelled. To avoid damage; do not wring or twist the Inflatable PFD.
3) Put the inflation tube dust cap back in its stowed position on the
oral inflation tube (Fig. 5).
4) Your device is ready to be repacked (see Repacking p. 11).
Repacking
Before repacking, completely deflate the inflation cell. Force excess
air out through the inflation tube (Fig. 16). Do not wring cell. Put the
inflation tube cap back in the stowed position (Fig. 5).
Note: Before following the repacking sequence, be sure to
properly re-arm your Inflatable PFD.
1) Fold lapel (A) across the front along the dotted line (Figs. 17, 18).
D
C
A
B
D
A
B
C
E
W1R
W1R
FIGURE 17 FIGURE 20FIGURE 19 FIGURE 18
2) Fold side (B) inward along dotted lines. Secure with Velcro™.
3) Repeat steps 1 and 2 with lapel (C) and side (D). Your Inflatable PFD
will look as illustrated in Fig. 19.
4) Fold down the collar (E) along the dotted line and secure with
Velcro™ tabs.
2) If the PFD was previously armed with automatic backup, skip to step
5.
3) Remove the yellow manual cap from the base of the inflator and
unfasten the hang-tag from the right side cover.
4) Remove the auto cap from the accessories pocket located under the
left cover of the inflatable cell. Stow the manual cap with hangtag
in the pocket and skip to step 7. (Fig. 14).
5) Unscrew and remove the auto cap (Fig. 6).
6) Remove and discard the fired or damaged bobbin. If necessary, rinse
the auto cap with fresh water to remove dirt and salt. Let dry before
going to step 7.
7) Install an unfired bobbin, which is less than four years old, into the
base of the inflator.
8) Install the auto cap on the base of the inflator and handtighten. If
the day-glow red spring (indicator) is exposed the bobbin has been
fired or damaged, or the auto cap is incorrectly threaded (correct
before going to step 9) (Fig. 8).
9) Check the manual lever to ensure it is in the up and ready position
with the green indicator pin properly installed. If the green indicator
pin is missing or damaged, replace it (Fig. 6).
10) Install an unused CO2 cylinder by screwing it into the top of the
inflator and hand tighten. Do not over-tighten as this can damage
the internal gasket.
11) Refold the PFD in accordance with the Repacking instructions (p. 11).
YOUR PFD IS NOW READY FOR MANUAL USE WITH AUTOMATIC BACKUP
Deflating the Inflatable PFD
1) To deflate the Inflatable PFD, reverse the oral-inflation tube dust cap
and insert it into the valve or depress valve with fingertip. The dust
cap will not lock in the deflate position so it is necessary to hold it in
place (Fig. 16).
10 Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual 11

should be replaced. If your Inflatable PFD leaks, take it to your
Mustang dealer for evaluation and/or servicing. Repack the Inflatable
PFD as outlined in the Repacking section (p. 11).
3) Annually:
i. To check the oral inflation valve, fully inflate PFD and hold valve
under water. If bubbles appear, deflate and reinflate to test again.
Should the leak persist, take your Inflatable PFD to your dealer for
proper servicing.
ii. Visually examine your PFD for damage or excessive abrasion,
wear, tear or contamination. Particular attention must be paid to the
stitching. If in doubt, send it to your Mustang dealer for evaluation
and/or servicing.
iii. Replace the automatic inflator bobbin.
Re-assemble inflation system parts and repack PFD as outlined in
previous instructions and illustrations.
Warning: If you are not confident in the self inspection and
servicing of your Inflatable PFD, in accordance with these
instructions, take your Inflatable PFD to a Mustang dealer for
professional servicing or contact Mustang Survival (see contact
information on back of manual).
Mustang Accessories
The MD3003 requires re-arm kit (MA7170) and the MD3031 requires re-
arm kit (MA7172).
Cleaning and Storing of Your Inflatable PFD
(MD3003)
To clean your Inflatable PFD, remove the CO2 cylinder. Hand wash or
sponge down the Inflatable PFD in warm, soapy water and rinse with
clean water. Hang to dry on a plastic coat hanger. Be sure to replace CO2
cylinder. See Re-arming your PFD After Manual Inflation (MD3003) (p. 7).
Always store your Inflatable PFD in a warm, dry place out of direct
sunlight.
5) Make sure the inflator pull-tab is on the outside of the folded PFD.
Fig. 20 depicts a correctly folded PFD.
Usage Below Freezing
When the temperature is below freezing, a fully discharged cylinder may
not adequately inflate your Inflatable PFD. Under these conditions use
the oral inflator to adequately top-up the PFD.
Warning: CO2 inflation could over-pressurize and damage your
Inflatable PFD if already orally inflated.
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 the CARE AND MAINTENANCE
INSTRUCTIONS (p. 12).
CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Check the following at the intervals listed below.
1) Each Use: Remove and inspect the CO2 cylinder from the inflator.
For the MD3031 - Also remove the auto cap and bobbin from the
inflator.
i. Check all components for dirt or corrosion. Clean or replace.
ii. Check that the CO2 cylinder has not been pierced. Replace with
Inflatable PFD 33 gram CO2 cylinder if necessary. The cylinder for the
MD3003 is contained in accessory pack MA7170. The cylinder for the
MD3031 is contained in accessory pack MA7172.
iii. Check the manual lever to ensure it is in the up and ready
position with the green indicator pin properly installed.
2) Every Three (3) Months: Leak Test the Inflatable PFD every three
months.
i. Orally inflate your Inflatable PFD until firm and let stand
overnight. A leaking Inflatable PFD will not hold its firmness and
12 Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual 13

· Learn how it works by:
• Activating the CO2 inflation system
• Re-arming the CO2 inflation system
• Using the oral inflator tube
To check the manual inflation system (with CO2 cylinder and green pin
removed); determine that the CO2 cylinder piercing pin and arm moves
freely when moving the lever (attached to the pull-tab) several times
down and up (for MD3003 see Fig. 2 and for MD3031 see Fig. 6). Repeat
this several times to check the manual inflation system.
FIGURE 21
MODEL MD3003
The U.S.Coast Guard recommends that you purchase two re-arming kits
(MA7170). One kit is to be used immediately in testing the inflation
system (see HOW DO YOU TEST YOUR PFD USING THE MANUAL
INFLATOR?, p. 16) and the other to carry on board as a spare.
MODEL MD3031
The U.S.Coast Guard recommends that you purchase two automatic
re-arming kits (MA7172). One kit is to be used immediately in testing
the automatic inflation system (see HOW DO YOU TEST YOUR PFD USING
THE AUTOMATIC INFLATOR?, p. 16) and the other to carry on board as a
spare.
The U.S. Coast Guard recommends you test the automatic inflation
system in the water at the beginning of each boating season. By
doing this, you demonstrate that the automatic inflation system is still
working properly and reduce the likelihood of premature inflation and its
associated dangers.
Cleaning and Storing of Your Inflatable PFD
(MD3031)
To clean your Inflatable PFD, remove the CO2 cylinder, auto-cap and
bobbin. Keep the bobbin dry. Hand wash or sponge down the Inflatable
PFD in warm, soapy water. Rinse the PFD and inflator with clean water.
Hang the Inflatable PFD to dry on a plastic coat hanger. Ensure the
inflator is thoroughly dry before installing the bobbin. Be sure to replace
CO2 cylinder, auto-cap and bobbin (see Re-arming your PFD (MD3031) as
Manual with Automatic Backup or Manual Only).
Always store your Inflatable PFD in a warm, dry place out of direct
sunlight.
WHY ARE PFDS REQUIRED SAFETY
EQUIPMENT?
Drownings are the leading cause of fatalities involving recreational
boating. A PFD provides flotation to help keep your head above water,
help you to stay face up in the water, and increase your chances for
survival and rescue. Most adults only need an extra 7 to 12 pounds (3 to
5 kg) of flotation to keep their heads above water. The proper size PFD
will properly support the weight of the wearer.
Since this Inflatable PFD does not have inherent buoyancy, it provides
flotation only when inflated. Familiarize yourself with the use of this
Inflatable PFD so you know what to do in an emergency.
HOW AND WHY TO TEST YOUR PFD
Inflate your Inflatable 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 CARE AND
MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS for leak tests p. 12). It should
inflate quick and easily.
14 Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual 15

used CO2 cylinder and the used bobbin from the Inflatable PFD
inflator.
Deflate the Inflatable PFD (see Deflating the Inflatable PFD p. 10).
6) Let the Inflatable PFD dry thoroughly. Re-arm (p. 8 or 9) and Repack
the PFD (p. 11).
HOW DO YOU TEST YOUR PFD USING THE
ORAL INFLATOR?
1) No spare parts or re-arming kits are needed to test your Inflatable
PFD, using the oral inflator.
2) Remove the CO2 cylinder to prevent inadvertent inflation, which
could potentially damage the Inflatable PFD. Inspect the cylinder to
confirm it is unused (Fig. 4). Unscrew the auto cap and remove the
bobbin (MD3031). Otherwise the bobbin will disintegrate during
water immersion.
3) Put on the Inflatable PFD.
4) Get into shallow water, just deep enough that you can stand with
your head above the surface.
5) If you are a weak swimmer or non-swimmer, inflate the Inflatable
PFD partially so that you are supported well enough to be able
to complete inflation without touching bottom, either orally or
manually. Note this level of inflation because it is the minimum
needed for you to safely use this Inflatable PFD.
6) Fully inflate the Inflatable PFD using the oral inflator.
7) See if the Inflatable PFD will float you on your back or just slightly
back of vertical. In a relaxed floating position, verify that your mouth
is well above the water’s surface. Note the effect of where you hold
your legs on how you float.
8) Get out of the water and remove the Inflatable PFD. Completely
deflate the Inflatable PFD (see Deflating the Inflatable PFD p. 10).
9) Let the Inflatable PFD dry thoroughly. Re-arm (for your model) and
Repack the PFD (p. 11).
HOW DO YOU TEST YOUR PFD USING THE
MANUAL INFLATOR?
1) To test your Inflatable PFD, you will need your fully armed Inflatable
PFD, and re-arming kit approved for your Inflatable PFD: MA7170 for
model MD3003 and MA7172 for model MD3031.
2) Put on the Inflatable PFD.
3) Actuate the inflation system by jerking firmly downward on the
pull-tab. The Inflatable PFD should fully inflate within 5 seconds.
4) Get into shallow water, just deep enough that you can stand with
your head above the surface.
5) See if the Inflatable PFD will float you on your back or just slightly
back of vertical. In a relaxed floating position, verify that your mouth
is well above the water’s surface. Note the effect of where you hold
your legs on how you float.
6) Get out of the water and remove the Inflatable PFD. Completely
deflate the Inflatable PFD using the oral inflator (see Deflating the
Inflatable PFD p. 10). Remove the CO2 cylinder from the inflator.
7) Let the Inflatable PFD dry thoroughly. Re-arm (for your model) and
Repack (p. 11) the PFD.
HOW DO YOU TEST YOUR PFD USING THE
AUTOMATIC INFLATOR? (MD3031)
1) To test your Inflatable PFD, you will need your fully armed Inflatable
PFD, and re-arming kit (MA7172) approved for your Inflatable PFD
2) Put on the Inflatable PFD.
3) Get into shallow water, just deep enough that you can stand with
your head above the surface. Once the inflator is underwater the
Inflatable PFD should fully inflate automatically within 10 seconds.
4) See if the Inflatable PFD will float you on your back or just slightly
back of vertical. In a relaxed floating position, verify that your mouth
is well above the water’s surface. Note the effect of where you hold
your legs on how you float.
5) Get out of the water and remove the Inflatable PFD. Remove the
16 Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual 17

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 or climb.
Swimming increases the rate of body heat loss. In cold water, drown-
proofing methods that require putting your head in the water are
not recommended. Keep your head out of the water. This will greatly
lessen heat loss and increase your survival time.
3) Use the standard H.E.L.P. position when wearing an Inflatable PFD,
drawing the legs up to a seated position, because doing so will help
you conserve body heat (Fig. 17).
4) Keep a positive attitude about your survival and rescue. This will
improve your chances of extending your survival time until rescued.
Your will-to-live does make a difference!
5) If there is more than one person in the water, huddling is
recommended while waiting to be rescued. This action tends to
reduce the rate of heat loss and thus increase the survival time.
FIGURE 17
HELP Position
EACH OF THESE DEVICES IS INTENDED TO
HELP YOU SAVE YOUR OWN LIFE
For your Inflatable PFD to function properly, follow these suggestions to
verify that it fits, floats, and remains in good condition.
1) Check the inflation mechanism status indicators before each use.
2) Get in the habit of re-arming the inflation mechanism right after
each inflation.
3) Try your wearable Inflatable PFD on and adjust it until it fits
WEAR YOUR PFD
In approximately 80 percent of all boating fatalities, the victims were not
wearing a PFD. Most fatal accidents happen on calm sunny days. This
Inflatable PFD is much more comfortable to wear than other PFD types.
Get into the habit of wearing this Inflatable PFD.
Non-swimmers and children especially should wear a hybrid or non-
Inflatable PFD at all times when on or near the water.
HYPOTHERMIA
Prolonged exposure to cold water causes a condition known as
hypothermia - a substantial loss of body heat, which leads to exhaustion
and unconsciousness. Most drowning victims first suffer from
hypothermia. The following chart shows the effects of hypothermia: how
hypothermia affects most adults.
How hypothermia affects most adults
Water Exhaustion or Expected
Temperature ˚C (˚F) Unconsciousness Time of Survival
0.3 (32.5) Under 15 min. Under 15–45 min.
0.3–4 (32.5–40) 15–30 min. 30–90 min.
4–10 (40–50) 30–60 min. 1–3 hrs
10–16 (50–60) 1–2 hrs. 1–6 hrs.
16–21 (60–70) 2–7 hrs. 2–40 hrs.
21–27 (70–80) 2–12 hrs. 3 hrs. to Indefinite
over 27 (over 80) Indefinite Indefinite
PFDs can increase survival time because they allow you to float without
using energy treading water and because of their insulating properties.
Naturally, the warmer the water, the less insulation you will require.
When operating in cold waters [below 60°F (15.6°C)] you should
consider using a coat or jacket style PFD or a Type V Thermal Protective
PFD as they cover more of the body than the vest or belt style PFDs.
Some Points to Remember About Hypothermia Protection:
1) Always wear your Inflatable PFD. Even if you become incapacitated
due to hypothermia, the Inflatable PFD will keep you afloat and
greatly improve your chances of rescue.
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comfortably in and out of the water.
4) Mark your Inflatable PFD with your name if you are the only wearer.
5) Do not alter your Inflatable PFD. If it doesn’t fit properly, get one that
does. An altered device is no longer Coast Guard approved.
6) Your Inflatable PFD is not intended for use as a fender or kneeling
pad.
7) If your Inflatable PFD is wet, allow it to dry thoroughly before storing
it. Store it in a well-ventilated area.
8) Do not dry your Inflatable PFD in front of a radiator or other source
of direct heat.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
If you need more information about PFDs and safe recreational boating,
contact your state boating authority, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S.
Power Squadron, Red Cross, or your nearest unit of the U.S. Coast Guard;
or call the CG Customer InfoLine at 1-800-368-5647 or the free boating
course number 1-800-336-BOAT (in VA, 1-800-245-BOAT).
DO NOT ATTACH PFD’S TO YOUR BOAT
Each PFD has straps, hooks, buckles, or other means for securing the
device in place on the wearer. Some PFDs also incorporate decorative
d-rings or tabs. Such items are not to be used to attach the device
to the boat. Attaching the device to the boat will not permit it to perform
as intended.
AIRLINE OPERATOR POLICY ON CARRIAGE OF
INFLATABLE PFDS AND CO2 CARTRIDGES
Please be aware that the following regulations apply to the air transport
of this product. According to U.S. Research and Special Programs
Administration Regulations Title 49 CFR 75.10(a)(25): With the approval
of the aircraft operator, one small carbon dioxide cylinder fitted into
a self-inflating jacket, plus one spare cartridge, may be carried by a
passenger or crew in checked or carry-on baggage.
Please refer to the governing body’s documentation, found online at
http://hazmat.dot.gov.
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