STEARNS 33M42-B06-D Self-Inflating Life Jacket Owner’s Manual

: June 6, 2024
: STEARNS

Table of Contents

APPROVAL CONDITIONS AND CARRIAGE REGULATIONS
MANDATORY CARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS
SPECIFICATIONS
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
WEAR YOUR PFD
HYPOTHERMIA
EACH OF THESE DEVICES IS INTENDED TO HELP YOU SAVE YOUR OWN LIFE
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

STEARNS 33M42-B06-D Self-Inflating Life Jacket Owner’s Manual

APPROVAL CONDITIONS AND CARRIAGE REGULATIONS

This inflatable PFD is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard for use as a Type III Personal Flotation Device (PFD). Failure to tie the tie tapes may result in this PFD riding up over the head and coming off during a jump entry into the water. It is not approved for water skiing or other high impact, high speed activities. This inflatable PFD was designed to be more comfortable and less restrictive to wear than inherently buoyant PFDs. When worn, used and serviced according to this owner’s manual, this PFD can greatly increase your chances of survival in the water. Not recommended for non-swimmers or weak swimmers. Users of inflatable PFDs must be at least 16 years old.

MANDATORY CARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS

Federal regulations in 33 CFR 175-1993 require you to carry Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) legibly marked with the Coast Guard approval number which are in good and serviceable condition and are the correct size for each person on board. To be considered serviceable, this PFD shall not exhibit deterioration that could diminish its performance such as broken or deformed hardware, detached webbing, rotted structural components, air leaks, or non-functional oral inflation tube. Unless worn inflated, this PFD must also be properly armed with a full CO2 cylinder, inflation system status indicator and an accessible manual inflation lanyard. A PFD which is “approved only when worn” or “required to be worn” must be worn under the specified conditions.

INITIAI ARMING INSTRIICTIONS – DEVICE IS NOT ARMFG,
(see Mechanism Parts List below.)

Step 1 – Locate CO2 Cylinder attached to the life vest.
Step 2 – Install new Cylinder into housing, pushing in then turning clockwise 1/8 turn to a full stop.

WARNING – PFD WILL ONLY INFLATE IF CYLINDER IS TURNED TO FULL STOP.

Step 3 – Check to be sure Cylinder Seal Indicator is Green. (Reference Step 3 on Back Cover.)
Initial Arming

SPECIFICATIONS

Chest Size: 30 – 52 inches (76 – 132 cm)
Weight Range: More than 80 pounds (36 kg)
Age Range: 16 years of age and older
- Inflation System:
- Manual Inflation Mechanism (located on bottom center)
- Oral Tube – (located on your left side)
- Jerk to Inflate Tab – (located on your left side) used to manually activate the inflation mechanism and inflate the PFD.
CO2 Cylinder: 33 gram with cylinder seal indicator.
Indicators: For the PFD to be fully armed, a cylinder must be inserted into the mechanism and the cylinder seal indicator must be Green.

•• USE REARMING KIT # 0932 ••

DONNING INSTRUCTIONS

Practice closing hardware and adjusting before use or prior to in-water testing.

Donning Instructions

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

PRE-DONNING INSTRUCTIONS

CHECK THE FOLLOWING BEFORE USING THIS PFD:

INSPECT PFD FOR DAMAGE
BE SURE A CYLINDER IS INSERTED INTO THE MECHANISM AND CYLINDER SEAL INDICATOR IS GREEN

READ BELOW FOR MORE DETAILED INFORMATION!

Inspecting Your PFD For Damage
Make sure that the PFD is free from rips, tears or punctures. This type of damage on the outside covering indicates that the Inflatable Chamber may have been exposed to potentially damaging elements. If these defects are noticed, discontinue use of the PFD until you have the PFD inspected by an authorized repair facility. The Inflatable Chamber should be checked for leaks at the beginning of each season and at least every two months during the boating season. The leak test procedure is described under USER’S INSPECTION.
How to Inspect the Mechanism and Cylinder
The mechanism is located bottom center, inside pouch.
Before inspecting the mechanism remove the CO2 cylinder to prevent unnecessary discharge.
The CO2 cylinder contains the gas charge that will inflate your PFD when the inflation mechanism is fired. You must verify that the CO2 cylinder installed is of the correct size specification and has not been previously fired. See the SPECIFICATIONS section on page 3 of this manual to determine proper size cylinder.
Be sure that an undamaged cylinder is inserted into the mechanism and that the cylinder seal indicator shows GREEN. If the indicator shows RED, replace with a new cylinder following the rearming instructions on back cover.

Additional Notes on CO2 Cylinders:

FAILURE to properly rearm the inflation mechanism prior to installing the CO2 Cylinder will result in premature activation of the cylinder.
CO2 Cylinders are only good for one (1) inflation and cannot be recharged.
CO2 Cylinders are made with a protective coating that may wear off after a period of use or exposure to the environment. When this coating is worn off, the CO2 Cylinder may start to show some signs of rusting. If this occurs, replace the CO2 Cylinder.
If a gram scale (such as a postal scale) is available, it is recommended to weigh the cylinder to verify that it meets the minimum weight imprinted on the cylinder.

REARMING AND INDICATOR CHECK INSTRUCTIONS
The back cover of this manual provides the REARMING/STATUS INSTRUCTIONS for the mechanism on your PFD.

DONNING INSTRUCTIONS
for pictogram instruction. After donning, locate the Jerk to Inflate tab for the mechanism. It should protrude from the PFD as shown on the pictogram. Make sure that you are comfortable locating the Jerk to Inflate tab with either hand. Should an emergency develop, be prepared to use it! Always wear your PFD over, not under clothing.
Caution – Bulky clothing may affect the ability of this PFD to turn the wearer to a face-up position in the water.

INFLATED DONNING INSTRUCTIONS
Inflatable PFDs can be very difficult to don when fully inflated. Deflate through the Oral Tube until enough gas has escaped to don. See DEFLATION INSTRUCTIONS. Don as described above and re-inflate orally as described below.

INFLATION INSTRUCTIONS
for additional information on testing and inflating your PFD.

MANUAL INFLATION – To inflate, grasp the Jerk to Inflate tab and
pull sharply downwards.
ORAL INFLATION – The Oral Tube is located on the wearer’s left side. Grasp the Oral Tube and bring to mouth. Blow air through the Oral Tube until the Inflatable Chamber is firm. If the chamber becomes soft due to CO2 presence (normal loss of cylinder gas over extended period of time), Oral Inflation will be necessary to maintain full buoyancy. Whenever you orally inflate the PFD it would be good practice to remove the CO2 cylinder prior to inflating.
COLD INFLATION – Oral Inflation may be required in addition to manual inflation if chamber is not firm due to cold temperatures at or below 40° F (4°C). Inflation Time using CO2 gas will be longer at these temperatures.
See FREEZING TEMPERATURES.
OTHER INFLATION PRECAUTIONS
CAUTION – Do not fully inflate orally then manually inflate with the CO2 cylinder. Repeated CO2 inflation after oral inflation will damage the PFD to the point that it will not hold air or float.
Never inflate this PFD with a Pump or Air-Compressor.
Permeation loss is greater when the device is inflated with CO2 than with air, and that earlier replenishment by means of the oral inflation system will therefore be necessary after several hours.

DEFLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Depress Oral Valve (located inside end of Oral Tube) using the protective cap or tab provided by inserting into the end of Oral Tube, see drawing. Gently compress air out of the inflatable chamber while depressing the Oral Valve.

Refer to the back inside cover for REPACKING INSTRUCTIONS.

DO NOT TWIST OR WRING INFLATABLE CHAMBER TO DEFLATE.
If for any reason the Oral Valve remains open, depress it several times. If it does not release, discontinue use of this PFD and take it to a certified Repair Facility. In an emergency situation, hold thumb over the valve if it will not close, or fold the tube in half and squeeze together.

OTHER USE GUIDELINES

Always wear your PFD when underway unless you are inside a cabin.
If you need to jump from any height always fold arms over your chest to keep the PFD in place when entering the water.
Avoid all unnecessary activities that will be abrasive to the device.
Use extreme caution around sharp objects.
Avoid unnecessary exposure to the sunlight. See GENERAL PRODUCT LIFE EXPECTANCE below.
Inflatable PFDs are not designed for activities in which the wearer expects to encounter impact with the water at a high-speed such as water skiing, riding personal water-craft; etc.
Never use in below freezing temperatures unless worn partly inflated. At or below 40°F inflation time with CO2 gas will be longer. Wearing a partially inflated PFD under these conditions will provide some initial buoyancy while the PFD fully inflates.
CO2 gas from the cylinder will permeate through the chamber fabric over time. If you are in the water for a long time, it may be necessary to top off the inflatable orally, by blowing air in through the oral tube.

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 non- functioning PFD causing injury or death.

CARE AND CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS

Drying – If the device is wet, place on a coat hanger to allow thorough drying. Do not place in direct sunlight to dry. Do not use any heat source or place on radiator.

Cleaning – Damp wipe only with mild detergent recommended for synthetic fabrics. Remove grease and oil immediately. Always rinse well with fresh water. Read instructions provided on the device.

DO NOT MACHINE WASH
DO NOT MACHINE DRY
DO NOT DRY CLEAN
DO NOT USE SOLVENT BASED CLEANERS
DO NOT BLEACH

INSPECTION

Certified Inspection – STEARNS, INC strongly recommends that this device be inspected at least every 24 months by a certified Repair Facility or STEARNS, INC.

User’s Inspection – The user should perform the following checks before each season, or before a long journey, or as recommended below:

Leak Test – This test should be performed every two months and at the start of each season. (a) Remove the CO2 cylinder (b) Inflate using the oral inflator (c) Leave to rest for 16 hours. When buoyancy chamber remains firm and full of air, there is no leakage and chamber is in operational condition. If the chamber deflates, immediately bring to a certified Repair Facility for repair. The device is no longer in operational condition. (d) Deflate, install the CO2 cylinder, inspect to ensure that the PFD is properly armed (Back Cover) and then repack the PFD (page 15) so it’s ready for use.
Function Test of Oral Valve – Remove the dust protection cap. With the PFD inflated (see steps a and b of Leak Test), test the valve by pushing it down using the tab provided on the cap (refer to page 6). The valve should depress easily. When released it should automatically return to the closed, resealed position. Prepare the PFD for use (see step d of Leak Test).
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 Repair Facility or replace the entire device. This inspection should be performed each outing.

STORAGE

STORE IN CLEAN, COOL, DRY AREA.
DO NOT STORE IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT

IS YOUR PFD IN GOOD AND SERVICEABLE CONDITION?

Check your PFD between outings to be sure that it is properly armed; that it is free of rips, tears or holes; that all seams are securely sewn; and that the fabric, straps and hardware are still strong. Inspect the inflatable portion of the PFD in accordance with Care and Maintenance Instructions on.

WHY ARE PFDs REQUIRED SAFETY EQUIPMENT?

Drownings are the leading cause of fatalities involving recreational boating. A PFD provides flotation to help keep your head above water, help you to stay face up in the water, and increase your chances for survival and rescue. Most adults only need an extra 7 to 12 pounds of flotation to keep their heads above water. The proper size PFD will properly support the weight of the wearer.

Since this inflatable PFD does not have inherent buoyancy, it provides flotation only when inflated. Familiarize yourself with the use of this PFD so you know what to do in an emergency.

HOW AND WHY TO TEST YOUR PFD?

Inflate your PFD and try it out in the water to:

Make sure it floats you :
Comfortably
(When worn properly) Adequately for expected wave conditions (Body shapes/densities affect performance)
Make sure it works :
A flow of bubbles should not appear (See leak tests) It should inflate quickly and easily
Learn how it works by :
Activating the CO2 inflation system Rearming the CO2 inflation system Using the Oral inflator tube.

The U.S. Coast Guard recommends that you purchase two rearming kits. One to be used immediately in testing the inflation system and the other to carry onboard as a spare.

HOW DO YOU TEST YOUR PFD USING THE MANUAL INFLATOR?

To test your inflatable PFD, you will need:
- Your fully armed PFD, and
- Rearming kit approved for your PFD.
Put on the PFD.
Actuate the inflation system by jerking firmly downward on the Jerk to Inflate tab. The PFD should fully inflate within 5 seconds. Place PFD over your head and tie the tie tapes.
Get into shallow water, just deep enough that you can stand with your head above the surface.
See if the PFD will float you on your back or just slightly back of vertical.
In a relaxed floating position, verify that your mouth is well above the water’s surface. Note the effect of where you hold your legs on how you float.
Get out of the water and remove the PFD. Remove the used CO2 cylinder from the PFD inflator. Completely deflate the PFD using the oral inflator.
Let the PFD dry thoroughly. REARM and REPACK the PFD in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions!

REPACK

HOW DO YOU TEST YOUR PFD USING THE ORAL INFLATOR?

To test your inflatable PFD, you will not need any spare parts or rearming kits.
Remove the CO2 cylinder, to prevent inadvertent activation of the manual inflation system which could potentially damage the PFD.
Put on the PFD.
Get into shallow water, just deep enough that you can stand with your head above the surface.
If you are a weak swimmer or non-swimmer, inflate the PFD partially so that you are supported well enough to be able to complete inflation without touching bottom, either orally or manually. Note this level of inflation because it is the minimum needed for you to safely use this inflatable PFD.
Fully inflate the PFD using the oral inflator. Place PFD over your head and tie the tie tapes.
See if the PFD will float you on your back or just slightly back of vertical.
In a relaxed floating position, verify that your mouth is well above the water’s surface. Note the effect of where you hold your legs on how you float.
Get out of the water and remove the PFD. Completely deflate the PFD using the oral inflator.
Let the PFD dry thoroughly. REARM and REPACK the PFD in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions!

WEAR YOUR PFD

In approximately 80 percent of all boating fatalities, the victims were not wearing a PFD. Most fatal accidents happen on calm sunny days. This inflatable PFD is much more comfortable to wear than other PFD types. Get into the habit of wearing this PFD. Non-swimmers and children especially should wear a hybrid or non-inflatable PFD at all times when on or near the water.

HYPOTHERMIA

Prolonged exposure to cold water causes a condition known as hypothermia – a substantial loss of body heat, which leads to exhaustion and unconsciousness. Most drowning victims first suffer from hypothermia. The following chart shows the effects of hypothermia:

HOW HYPOTHERMIA AFFECTS MOST ADULTS

PFDs can increase survival time because they allow you to float without using energy treading water and because of their insulating properties. Naturally, the warmer the water, the less insulation you will require. When operating in cold waters [below 60º F(15.6º C)] you should consider using a coat or jacket style PFD or a Type V Thermal Protective PFD as they cover more of the body than the vest or belt style PFDs.

Some Points to Remember About Hypothermia Protection:

Always wear your PFD. Even if you become incapacitated due to hypothermia, the PFD will keep you afloat and greatly improve your chances of rescue.
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.
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.
Keep a positive attitude about your survival and rescue. This will improve your chances of extending your survival time until rescued. Your will-to-live does make a difference!
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.

EACH OF THESE DEVICES IS INTENDED TO HELP YOU SAVE YOUR OWN LIFE

For your PFD to function properly, follow these suggestions to verify that it fits, floats, and remains in good condition:

Check the status of the inflator and make sure that the status indicator is green. Check before each outing.
Get in the habit of rearming the inflation mechanism right after each inflation.
Try your wearable PFD on and adjust it until it fits comfortably in and out of the water.
Mark your PFD with your name if you are the only wearer.
Do not alter your PFD. If it doesn’t fit properly, get one that does. An altered device is no longer Coast Guard approved.
Your PFD is not intended for use as a fender or kneeling pad.
If your PFD is wet, allow it to dry thoroughly before storing it. Store it in a well-ventilated area.
Do not dry your PFD in front of a radiator or other source of direct heat.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

If you need more information about PFDs and safe recreational boating, contact your state boating authority, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadron, Red Cross, or your nearest unit of the U.S. Coast Guard; or call the CG Customer Info Line at 1-800-368-5647 or the Free Boating Course number 1-800-336-BOAT (in VA, 1-800-245-BOAT) or see USCG Boating Web Page at www.boating.org

DO NOT ATTACH PFD’S TO YOUR BOAT

Each PFD has straps, hooks, buckles, or other means for securing the device in place on the wearer. Some PFDs also incorporate decorative Deering’s or tabs. Such items are not to be used to attach the device to the boat. Attaching the device to the boat will not permit it to perform as intended.

CO2 PERMEATION LOSS
CO2 gas from the cylinder will permeate the chamber fabric over time. If you are in the water for a long time, it may be necessary to top off the inflatable orally, by blowing air in through the oral tube.

BUDDY LINE INFORMATION
Buddy lines, when provided, are to be used by people adrift in the water, to attach themselves to one another and aid in staying together. Buddy lines are not designed for lifting.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THE INITIAL ARMING, REARMING, REPACKING, OR NEAREST CERTIFIED REPAIR FACILITY CALL 1-800-783-2767.

PRODUCT REGISTRATION: PLEASE MAIL REGISTRATION CARD OR CALL 1-800-783-2767 IN ORDER TO RECEIVE IMPORTANT UPDATES ON THIS PRODUCT.

References

boating.org

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