Product Manual

C. INSPECTION

Certified Inspection - Stearns strongly recommends that this

device be inspected at least every 24 months by a certified

Stearns Repair Facility or STEARNS Inc.

User's Inspection - The users should perform the following

checks before each season, or before a long journey, or as

recommended below:

1. Leak Test - This test should be performed every two months

and at the start of each season. (a) Remove the CO2

cylinder (b) Inflate using the oral inflator (c) Leave to rest for

16 hours. If buoyancy chamber remains firm and full of air,

there is no leakage and chamber is in operational condition.

If the chamber deflates, immediately bring to a certified

Stearns Repair Facility for repair. The device is no longer in

operational condition. (d) Deflate, install the CO2 cylinder,

inspect to ensure that the PFD is properly armed (Back

Cover) and then repack the PFD (page 19) so it's ready for

use.

2. Function Test of Oral Valve - Remove the dust protection

cap. With the PFD inflated (see steps a and b of Leak Test,

(above), test the valve by pushing it down using the tab

provided on the cap (refer to page 8). The valve should

depress easily. When released it should automatically return

to the closed, resealed position. Prepare the PFD for use

(see step d of Leak Test).

3. 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 Stearns

Repair Facility or replace the entire device. This inspection

should be performed each outing.

D. STORAGE

• STORE IN CLEAN, COOL, DRY AREA.

• DO NOT STORE IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT.

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 on page 9.