How many times can a PFD be used before it should be discarded?

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) play a crucial role in ensuring safety while boating, and understanding their lifespan is essential for maintaining effectiveness. A PFD can generally be used for multiple occasions, but its integrity can diminish over time due to wear and tear, exposure to the elements, or improper storage.

The recommended guideline of 20 uses before considering a PFD for discarding takes into account these factors. After this number of uses, the PFD may not perform effectively in an emergency, which could lead to serious safety issues. Regular inspections are advised to check for any signs of deterioration such as rips, tears, or loss of buoyancy—these are all indicators that a PFD should be discarded sooner rather than later.

It is imperative to keep safety paramount when on the water. Following these guidelines ensures that every time a PFD is needed, it will function correctly and provide the necessary buoyancy to protect life.