How should PFDs be maintained?

• A. Stored in a dry bag
• B. Replace damaged units and retire expired ones per policy
• C. Clean and polish weekly
• D. Inspect for wear, buoyancy, and fit; replace damaged units and retire expired ones per policy

Answer: (D)

Regular maintenance of PFDs means routinely checking their condition and function and replacing them as required by policy. Inspect for wear, buoyancy, and fit to ensure the device will perform when needed: look for rips, seams coming apart, frayed or damaged straps and buckles, and any signs the buoyant material has degraded. Verify the buoyancy is still adequate and that the PFD fits properly when worn. If you find damage or the unit has expired, replace it and retire it per policy to keep the fleet safe and compliant. Storage, cleaning, or cosmetic polishing alone don’t guarantee readiness, and simply replacing damaged units without an inspection step could miss other issues.