Immersion (Survival) Suits
Advantages
· Best hypothermia protection of any PFD
· Minimum 22 Ibs.buoyancy; will float wearer even when full of water
Disadvantages
· Takes practice to don quickly
· IMMERSION SUITS
Immersion suits used to be called "Survival Suits." Based on that name, too many people have the idea that the suit is some sort of amazing device which will magically cause them to overcome the worst winter sea conditions. It will not.
The immersion suit is, quite simply, a Personal Flotation Device with excellent thermal protection qualities. It is one of the most powerful tools you can possess in your battle to survive, but like any tool, the more you know about how to employ it, the more benefits you are likely to obtain from it.
STOWAGE
The best suit in the world is no good if you can't get at it in an emergency. Based on review of case histories, the Coast Guard and the National Transportation Safety Board strongly recommend that suits be stowed either in the wheelhouse or in a weathertight locker near the Liferafts. If these locations are not practical on your boat, find one which allows quick access to the suits from the weather deck.
If members of your crew have their own suits on board, or if you have crew who require a Jumbo or Small size suit, make sure your system allows crewmembers to make rapid identification of the proper suit.
FEATURES
Certain features must be present on every Coast Guard-approved Immersion Suit. These include:
· Light
· Inflatable Pillow or High Rider ring
· Whistle
· Retro-reflective tape OPTIONS
Just like with a car, certain features may be provided as options on your suit when it is new, or you can have them added later on. Remember, the Coast Guard requirements represent only the bare minimum level of outfitting. Features to consider purchasing or adding on might include:
· More retro-reflective tape
· Brighter light
· Extra pockets
· Lifting ring
· Buddy cords
· Detachable mitts
MAINTENANCE NEEDS
Immersion suits will generally last longer and be more reliable if properly maintained. You should consult your manufacturer for maintenance specifics; however, the following general guidelines apply to most brands. Monthly emergency drills are an excellent time to accomplish many of the maintenance and inspection requirements.
Zippers
The waterproof zipper represents about half the cost of most immersion suits. To get the most life out of the zipper, it should be lubricated regularly using a non-petroleum based wax, such as paraffin or beeswax.
Ventilation
Suits should be thoroughly dried before stowage, and should be stowed in as dry a location as possible to avoid damage from mildew. If your vessel is to be laid up for any amount of time, you might consider removing the suits and hanging them up in a wellventilated location.
Cleanliness
Do not allow your suits to come in contact with oil or grease, as these can cause damage to the neoprene rubber.
Service
Suits should be periodically serviced at an authorized service station. Professionals there can clean the suits, inspect them for damage, and make needed repairs.
