Product Manual

14
VII. 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 PFD. Non-swimmers and
children especially should wear a hybrid or non-inflatable PFD at all
times when on or near the water.
VIII. 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
Water Temperature
Exhaustion or
Expected Time
ºC
(ºF)
Unconsciousness
Of Survival
0.3
(32.5)
UNDER 15 MIN
UNDER 15 TO 45 MIN
0.3 TO 4
(32.5 TO 40)
15 TO 30 MIN
30 TO 90 MIN
4 TO 10
(40 TO 50)
30 TO 60 MIN
1 TO 3 HOURS
10 TO 16
(50 TO 60)
1 TO 2 HOURS
1 TO 6 HOURS
16 TO 21
(60 TO 70)
2 TO 7 HOURS
2 TO 40 HOURS
21 TO 27
(70 TO 80)
2 TO 12 HOURS
3 HOURS 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 60º F(15.6º 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.