Good morning Penny, I reached out to our friends at FirstWatch and asked what their recommendation was for your question.
I asked, "
We had a question from one of our agencies asking about disinfecting PFDs for their officers and gear with the ongoing Covid-19 situation. Does FirstWatch have a recommended disinfecting process that won't harm the life jacket? I am assuming a Lysol type aerosol spray that does not contain bleach, followed by regular washing?"
Here is their reply:
You are correct – mild 'over the counter' spray disinfectants should be fine. The materials used in PFDs are consistent with most sports equipment – so surface sprays that do not saturate the fabrics can be used. Also the sun is natures way of disinfecting – however extended periods of sun exposure will degrade the fabric.
Machine washing is most effective – use a gentle cycle, front loading washer, liquid detergent and cold water. Make sure all Velcro and straps are fastened before washing to avoid damage through the wash cycle. Hang to dry in a well ventilated area. They will look and feel like new!
Properly storing PFDs on board is most important! Moisture is the enemy. Do not store wet. Always make sure PFDs are protected from the elements. Sustained sun and rain will rot materials and compromise strength.
Flotation coats and suits can also be machine washed on a gentle cycle – (cold water). Make sure Velcro and straps are fastened before washing to avoid damage through the cycle. Hang to dry in a well ventilated area. These can take a couple days to thoroughly dry. They will feel like new.
Inflatable PFDs require extra attention. The 'over the counter' sprays are effective in managing bacteria - do not machine wash. A hand scrub of the cover and webbing with dish detergent and water is sufficient. Do not immerse the vest in water as this will deploy the inflation system. Drying and storing moisture management is very important. Make sure the inflatable PFDs are dried and stored properly in a well ventilated area not exposed to the elements.
Always check the PFD inflator shows GREEN – for armed and ready. Bobbins must be replaced before 4 years of manufacturing (date is marked on the side of the yellow bobbin) – refer to your owners manual. We suggest replacement every 1-2 years in hot humid climates.
Note – we can not advise for the Mustang HIT inflatable PFDs (round yellow inflator) inflatable PFDS – please refer to the Mustang Survival owners manual.
I hope this helps!
V/R
Dave
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Dave Considine
BOAT Program Director
NASBLA
Cell (978) 314-1839
Office Direct (859) 225-7375
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Original Message:
Sent: 03-24-2020 11:08 AM
From: Penny Kanable
Subject: PFD DISINFECTING SOLUTIONS
Question from our State Emergency Operations Center regarding PFD disinfection protocols during flood rescues when we have a mixture of isolated-COVID+ and isolated-COVID– residents.
Need to know the cleaning/disinfecting options for our Warden PFDs and for the PFDs we provide to those residents being rescued. Wisconsin Wardens use the Mustang swift water rescue vests and the auto (obviously not during flood situations) or manual inflatables. In most flood rescue situations our Wardens will be using the swift water rescue vest.
Can we use a spray disinfectant on the PFDs or will that comprise the materials? The only thing I am finding is don't use bleach or fabric softener.
Thanks for your quick response.
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Penny Kanable, Boating Law Administrator
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
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