After inflation, you need to place the inflated PFD over your head.
If you are inebriated, injured, or disabled, this increases the probability you are going to drown. A vest is still a better option.
I have self inflated vests onboard that are extremely comfortable and must be worn, or you are off my boat. I am strict about that. In twenty years I have never had anyone not comply with my rules. The vest rule is only one of them.
Although not as ideal as a full on PFD, self inflating PFDs are a great innovation. A person can move about and still be relatively comfortable and still have that level of safety.
If I were preparing to abandon ship, I'd still go for a real PFD.
The self inflating PFD I have will right an unconscious person to face up position.
I tried it once to see if it really works. It cost me $25 for a new set of compressed air cylinder and a new dissolving ring, but it was worth it for the confidence it gave me.
Once when sailing our
Phantom, we got turtled, and we were tossed overboard (nothing to be concerned about). The PFD’s we wore were so comfortable, we forgot we had them on. They suddenly inflated They really work.
NiceAft wrote: ↑Fri Jun 13, 2025 5:53 pm
The self inflating PFD I have will right an unconscious person to face up position.
I tried it once to see if it really works. It cost me $25 for a new set of compressed air cylinder and a new dissolving ring, but it was worth it for the confidence it gave me.
Good idea.
I have a refill kit. Maybe I'll use it to test the PFD and experience what you have to gain confidence.
NiceAft wrote: ↑Fri Jun 13, 2025 5:53 pm
The self inflating PFD I have will right an unconscious person to face up position.
I tried it once to see if it really works. It cost me $25 for a new set of compressed air cylinder and a new dissolving ring, but it was worth it for the confidence it gave me.
Good idea.
I have a refill kit. Maybe I'll use it to test the PFD and experience what you have to gain confidence.
I don’t purchase a new kit when it’s time to replace the bobbin; the gas cartridge is still good. I just purchase a new bobbin. Actually six; I have six vest on Nice Aft.
The auto inflate is only as fast as the dissolvable part of the inflating trigger is fresh. Think of the bobbin as an aspirin. It dissolves, if an old, dried up aspirin is dropped in water, it takes longer to dissolve.