The inflatable type PFD should be inflated before entering the water.

The inflatable type PFD should be inflated before entering the water.

• A. Yes, before entering the water
• B. No, it should be inflated after entering the water
• C. It should be inflated only if the crew is close to shore
• D. It should never be inflated

Answer: (B)

Inflatable PFDs are meant to provide buoyancy when you actually need it, not while you’re still moving around on deck. Keeping the device deflated until you enter the water avoids a bulky, stiff vest that can hinder movement, snag on rails or gear, or inflate accidentally from splashes. Inflate it at or after you are in the water (manually or automatically, depending on the model) so you get buoyancy when you need it without compromising maneuverability on deck.

Inflatable PFDs are meant to provide buoyancy when you actually need it, not while you’re still moving around on deck. Keeping the device deflated until you enter the water avoids a bulky, stiff vest that can hinder movement, snag on rails or gear, or inflate accidentally from splashes. Inflate it at or after you are in the water (manually or automatically, depending on the model) so you get buoyancy when you need it without compromising maneuverability on deck.