V. CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS GENERAL PRODUCT LIFE EXPECTANCY
The reliability and service life of this PFD depends greatly upon how it is used and cared for. Avoid storing PFD in direct sunlight. Sunlight contains ultraviolet radiation that weakens synthetic materials. Prolonged exposures to high temperatures and high humidity may shorten service life of this PFD. While it is known that these elements degrade the materials, every use environment is unique so there is no sure way to estimate how long the PFD will last. It is for this reason that you must follow the care and cleaning instructions and perform the maintenance and service checks. This will assure that the PFD remains functional and will maximize the useful life of this PFD. Failure to follow these instructions rigorously could result in a
USER'S INSPECTION
The users should perform the following checks before each season, or before a long journey, or before each outing, as recommended below:
1.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.
2.Oral Inflation Leak Test - This test should be performed every two months and at the start of each season. Inflate buoyancy chamber using the oral inflation valve and leave to rest for 16 hours. When buoyancy chamber remains firm and full of air, there is no leakage and chamber is operational. If the chamber deflates during this leak test, immediately bring to a certified Stearns Repair Facility for repair. The device is no longer in operational condition.
3.Function Test of Oral Valve - With the PFD inflated, remove the dust protection cap, and test the valve by pushing it down using the tab provided on the cap (refer to Page 8). The valve should depress easily, and when released it should automatically return to the closed position and reseal.
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