What is Life Raft (USCG/SOLAS)?
A life raft is an inflatable survival raft designed to keep people alive at sea if they abandon ship. USCG (United States Coast Guard) and SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) certified rafts meet strict international standards for construction, survival equipment, and capabilities.
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What it is
A life raft is an inflatable survival raft designed to keep people alive at sea if they abandon ship. USCG (United States Coast Guard) and SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) certified rafts meet strict international standards for construction, survival equipment, and capabilities. The raft deploys from a canister or valise, can be launched automatically or manually, and can include built-in survival equipment including food, water, signaling devices and first aid supplies.
What it does
A life raft is designed to protect you and your crew until help arrives in case you have to abandon ship. There are many types on the market and a variety of certifications available, each designed for specific ocean conditions, number of crew and expected time for rescue to arrive. They can include a variety of features like ballast pockets to improve stability in waves, insulation, inflatable covers to protect against sun exposure, survival supplies, communication devices and more. When investing in a life raft, consider all options and choose the product that best suits your use case. Learn more about the different types of life rafts here: https://www.survivalatsea.com/learn/liferafts.aspx
Why it matters
If your boat is sinking, on fire, or otherwise becoming uninhabitable, a life raft may be your only chance of survival. SOLAS and USCG certification ensures the raft meets minimum standards for seaworthiness and survival equipment for commercial use. Assess your vessel’s needs to determine what type of life raft best suits your needs. For offshore passages or serious coastal cruising, a life raft is considered essential safety equipment. Many insurance policies require it.
General Maintenance
Commercially certified liferafts must be serviced/inspected annually by authorized service facilities after the initial two-year certification expires. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended servicing and inspecting schedule. During service, the raft is inflated, inspected for damage, all survival equipment is checked and expired items replaced, and the raft is repacked. Between services, visually inspect the canister or valise for damage. Ensure the raft is properly secured but can be released quickly. Check that hydrostatic release (if equipped) hasn't been triggered. Verify the raft hasn't passed its service due date. Ensure crew knows deployment procedure.
Common Issues
- Raft passing service due date making it unreliable or non-certifiable
- Canister or valise developing leaks allowing water intrusion
- Mounting straps or hardware corroding or loosening
- Hydrostatic release accidentally triggering or corroding
- Raft stored where it cannot be accessed or deployed quickly in emergency
- Crew unfamiliar with deployment procedure
- Painter line (tether) not properly secured to boat
- Emergency pack items reaching expiration between services
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