What are Sospenders?
Sospenders are high performance inflatable personal flotation devices. They are lightweight, comfortable, allow maximum freedom of movement and provide more buoyancy than most foam life jackets.
How do Sospenders work?
All models use a CO2 cylinder to inflate the unit. The manually activated models are activated by pulling a ripcord. The manually activated models with automatic backup systems use a water-activated bobbin or dissolvable pill which allows the unit to inflate within 5 seconds of submersion. Both models have oral inflation backup tubes.
How long will my inflatable PFD stay inflated?
CO2 will permeate through the bladder material over a period of time because it is lighter than oxygen. If the unit is orally inflated it will stay inflated indefinitely. If the unit deflates right away, please send it back to us immediately so we can check for holes in the bladder.
How often do I have to change my CO2 cartridge?
You only have to change the CO2 whenever you use the CO2 or if the CO2 is leaking or corroded.
How long is a CO2 cartridge good for?
The CO2 does not have a prescribed shelf life. It will last indefinitely unless it is corroded or leaking. Check weight of CO2 by weighing on a postal or kitchen scale.
Can I use my inflatable PFD again after it has been inflated?
Yes, but you must rearm the unit every time it inflates. Each CO2 cartridge can be used only one time to inflate the unit.
Where can I get a rearming kit?
Usually you can purchase rearming kits from the dealer where the unit was purchased. We also have them available to purchase online. CLICK HERE.
Is it okay to take my inflatable PFD and rearming kits on an airplane?
Effective August 4, 2007, the TSA again permits the CO2 cylinders with an Inflatable PFD through their security checkpoints. The permission process this time went through the White House and Congress. It is expected that this approval will stay in place much longer due to a much broader approval process. TSA Screeners across the United States have been trained already and are prepared to let these through.
Look under "Disabling Chemicals & Other Dangerous Items" for specifics: http://tinyurl.com/ptxdw
Remember though, it is still each airlines choice whether to allow these on their airplanes and each sets their own policies
(roughly 1/2 allow them and 1/2 don't).
Check with your airline (and connecting or return flights) or their websites to make sure they allow them before you travel.
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm
Can I ship the CO2 cartridges by air?
Yes, if shipped within the U.S. there is a hazmat shipping charge per box. Please contact your shipper to confirm pricing. CO2 is a controlled non-flammable gas.
How do I deflate my PFD?
By inserting the deflation mechanism located next to the dust cap on the oral inflation valve into the top of the oral inflation valve. Hold the deflation mechanism in place and gently squeeze all the air out. Never put anything other than the deflation mechanism inside the oral inflation valve.
How do I rearm the inflator?
Please see the instruction manual that came with your Sospenders Inflatable PFD or Rearm Kit, or click here to download instructions for your particular Sospenders unit. If you need additional help, please call our customer service number at 800-328-3208 Extension 350.
How easy is it to repack my PFD?
It is very simple. The most important thing to remember is that you must get all the air out of the unit. Do this by rolling it up like a sleeping bag. Unfold it and press it out. Follow the instructions silkscreened on the unit. Remember to always rearm your PFD if the unit was inflated with the CO2.
Do you sell a Waistbelt model?
Where do I store my inflatable PFD?
Make sure you store it in a well-ventilated, dry area, out of the sun. Do not put your PFD in a confined area. If you are storing your PFD for long periods of time, we recommend you disarm your unit. Always check to make sure that your PFD is armed before donning.
How do I clean my inflatable PFD?
1. First, disarm the unit
2. Use warm, soapy water to clean
3. Rinse with fresh water to remove salt
4. Hang to dry
5. Do not dry clean. Do not use chemicals to clean. Do not put in a dryer.
I do not know how to swim. Should I use an Inflatable PFD?
No. A non-swimmer could panic in an unexpected fall into the water, and forget they may need to activate the inflator mechanism.
Non-swimmers would be advised to use an inherently buoyant or hybrid PFD that provides flotation without any action on their part.
Is there an age requirement for inflatable PFDs?
Yes. Inflatables are only approved for use by people 16 years of age and older. People under the age of 16 must have inherently buoyant or hybrid device in their size range on board the boat to meet the carriage requirements. At some point in the future, there may be standards developed for children's inflatables.
Are Inflatable PFDs approved for all boating activities?
No. Fully inflatable PFDs are not approved for high speed applications such as riding a PWC, waterskiing, or tubing. Inflatables are not approved for white water activities.
For these activities, the user needs buoyancy while in the water. It is not reasonable to expect that the wearer would stop, deflate the chamber, rearm the inflator, and repack the PFD after each water entry.
Can I use my CO2 cylinder more than once?
No. Once the cylinder has been punctured all of the gas will escape into the chamber. This is why you need to check to see if the cylinder is full before each outing. If your device has a CYLINDER SEAL INDICATOR, it will show GREEN if the cylinder is full. If it shows RED, you must replace the cylinder.
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