Marine liferafts exist in a harsh environment. They are exposed to both fresh and salt water, wide changes in outside temperature, abuse by the crew in handling and stowage, in addition to the liferaft fabrics normal aging process.

There is no way to keep a liferaft completely dry on a boat. Liferaft containers both leak and have condensation problems. They can also become damaged through improper stowage or rough weather conditions, thus allowing sharp fiberglass edges to chafe the liferaft as well as allowing further water intrusion.

In spite of all this, the liferaft is designed to perform under conditions where the main vessel would not survive. There is no way to determine if a liferaft remains in optimum functioning condition without having it serviced regularly.

Of the three important functions of a liferaft, the first and foremost is that the liferaft must inflate. The inflation system is the key to this process. Inflation cylinders are manufactured from either steel or aluminum. Both of these materials suffer from corrosion and/or electrolysis when put in an environment of fresh or salt water. Making sure that both the inflation cylinder and the liferaft inflation system are in working condition is the first priority when servicing a liferaft. A service facility inspects for corrosion and/or electrolysis problems and correct gas charges in the cylinder(s). During servicing cylinders have been found to be in great shape one year yet corrosion will have created a hole in the cylinder twelve months later. Testing to insure the proper working order of the inflation valve(s) in the liferaft itself will also be done by the service facility.

Once the initial inflation of the liferaft has occurred, the liferaft must continue to remain inflated. Abrasion of the liferaft caused by movement of the liferaft inside the container and damage due to moisture are the two biggest problems confronting a newer liferaft. Additionally, as a liferaft ages, the material itself can become porous or develop weak spots. Allowing the liferaft a chance to dry every year along with repairing problem abrasion/ageing areas before they become un-repairable is of extreme importance.

Finally, the equipment stored in the liferaft must function. Most liferaft equipment has a designated service life to assure proper operation. Items such as flashlight batteries, flares, repair kit cement, food and water are required to be replaced at designated times. Water damage to the equipment can render it useless.

Having a liferaft serviced on an annual basis provides the best possibility that the liferaft will inflate properly, hold air once inflated, and contain functioning equipment packed inside the liferaft.

Where to store your life raft?

If there was a fire you would want an extinguisher easily at hand to put it out. A life raft is no different. If you have to abandon ship you will not necessarily have time to search for the container in a locker under a bed or find a key to a padlock to release it. The situation is stressful enough as it is and you need calm and clear thinking to increase your chances of survival.

Make sure that where you store it will not be subject to unnecessary wear and tear from people walking on it or knocking it. If the boat’s designer hasn’t designed a specific place for it, the best place is in a cradle on the deck for instance, at the foot of the mast or on a powerboat.
 

 
Valise or canister?

Life rafts are available in a valise or a canister. Where possible, a canister is recommended to offer the best protection against wear and tear and the elements. A canister can be left on deck or mounted in the stern of a yacht. A life raft in a valise should be protected from the elements and care should be taken to keep it clear from sharp objects. It will need to be stored in a location that permits it to be brought on deck quickly and easily.