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. 10).
4)Keep a positive attitude about your survival and rescue. This will improve your chances of extending your survival time until rescued. Your
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 10
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
15 | Inflatable PFD Owner’s Manual |
