Hi all - this is the evil reprimander!
Life jackets in the US have to be certified every 5 years. Each life jacket is sealed in a somewhat clear bag where you can see the Serviceable tickets with:
1. Date inspected
2. Date reinspection required by
3. Model Number
4. Serial Number
5. FAA Approved Inspection Facility
6. Faciliy approval number
In the US, if you open the seal the jacket needs to be reinspected which normally totals most of the jacket worth. So there are two options: a) wear the jacket and be ready, although it may be damaged from the constant wear, or b) you are not ready with the jacket on, but you know that the jacket works as should!
As with everything......two trains of thought.
We point the "do not wear the life jacket scenario" to everyone as it is so different!
Sensible - thanks for the kind words even after your reprimand!
Jabi - what can I say........
Happy Flying
Nikki