What to know for Lifejackets and PFDs
Check that lifejackets are suitable, fitted, and ready before they are needed.
Buoyancy, fit, crotch straps, lights, sprayhoods, servicing, and use with heavy clothing. This module is mapped to the published course boundary for Sea Survival Revision and written as an independent revision aid, not official training material.
Key Points
- A lifejacket must fit the person and clothing
- Crotch straps help stop ride-up
- Lights and sprayhoods improve survival chances
- Servicing and inspection matter
Last reviewed: 6 July 2026 by Compass Revision curriculum review
Revision checks
Use these checks before moving on. If one feels vague, reread the module and compare it with the linked official source before treating the topic as learned.
Core topic tags: lifejackets, crotch straps, lights, servicing.
Key Points
- Can you explain: A lifejacket must fit the person and clothing?
- Can you explain: Crotch straps help stop ride-up?
- Can you explain: Lights and sprayhoods improve survival chances?
- Can you explain: Servicing and inspection matter?
Common mistakes
Most assessment and real-world errors come from misreading the situation, skipping a simple check, or treating a memory aid as a substitute for judgement.
Use this section as a pre-test: if you can explain why each mistake is risky, you are closer to usable knowledge.
Key Points
- Lifejacket not worn or not clipped correctly
- No crotch straps
- Out-of-date or unchecked inflation system