If you are a seasoned pilot or an experienced seaman, at some point in your career, you’ll likely need to invest in a high-quality, modern life raft. But how do you know which life raft is best–not only in terms of safety, but in terms of longevity and maintenance? As a professional pilot or sailor, safety is always a top priority, and one of the most important safety devices you can invest in is a high-quality, modern life raft. Not all life rafts are created equal, however. That’s where the Switlik life raft comes in. Switlik is a world-renowned manufacturer of life rafts that are designed to meet the highest safety standards and provide maximum durability. There are a few basic questions about life rafts that every professional pilot or captain should know–so let’s get after it!

What Is a Life Raft Used For?

First, let’s clarify what a life raft is used for. In the event that your aircraft or vessel experiences a catastrophic failure and you’re forced to abandon it, a life raft serves as a buoyant platform that can keep you and your crew safe until rescue arrives. In this type of emergency rescue situation, a life raft can be the difference between life and death. 

 Switlik life rafts are known for meeting or exceeding the highest safety standards in the aviation and maritime industries. They’ve been meticulously designed to provide maximum protection in the harshest of environments. They offer superior stability, easy-to-use inflation systems, and airtight compartments that keep the raft buoyant even if several chambers are punctured. Switlik life rafts also feature built-in emergency equipment, such as flares, signaling mirrors, and drinking water rations.

What Are Life Rafts Made Out Of?

One key factor that sets Switlik life rafts apart from their competitors is the materials used in their construction. Switlik uses a proprietary material and manufacturing process that results in a raft that’s both lightweight and durable. They’re also designed with a unique rugged exterior that can withstand the toughest conditions. This makes Switlik life rafts ideal for use in harsh environments, whether you’re battling rough seas or extreme cold. 

Switlik life rafts are also known for their long-lasting durability. The materials used in their construction are resistant to degradation from UV radiation, and their airtight compartments are designed to remain airtight even after years of use.  Maintenance is another key consideration when it comes to life rafts, but with Switlik, you can rest easy knowing that their rafts are designed to be low-maintenance. The inflation systems are easy to check and maintain, and the raft’s materials are designed to resist degradation from salt water and UV radiation. While regular inspections are still necessary, Switlik life rafts are designed to require minimal maintenance over their long lifespan.

How Long Can You Survive on a Life Raft?

When it comes to life rafts, the primary function is to provide safety and survival in the event of emergencies at sea. Whether you are on a plane or a ship, a reliable life raft can mean the difference between life and death. Surviving in a life raft depends heavily on the type of life raft, its durability, and the condition of the raft. In this blog post, we will explore the two critical factors affecting a life raft's durability and how long a person can survive in a life raft. Additionally, we will introduce Switlik life rafts and how you can purchase one near you. 

 The duration you can survive in a life raft depends on several factors, most importantly, the vessel's location, time of year, and the individual's health and physical condition. Typically, in colder and rougher waters, survival time is brief due to the risk of hypothermia. In other cases, if the raft is not equipped with necessary supplies like fresh water, food, and first aid, the chances of survival diminish. 

 Studies have shown that the average survival time in a life raft is two to four weeks. However, this duration can be prolonged based on the circumstances of survival. For instance, if the rescue team locates the life raft within the first 48 hours, the chances of survival increase greatly. Hence, it is essential to ensure that any life raft chosen for use meets the required safety standards of the region in which it operates.

How Long Does a Life Raft Last?

Durability and lifespan vary widely between life raft manufacturers, but a Switlik is always good for five years from its manufacture date. The lifespan of your life raft depends on regular maintenance and a few other factors, like exposure to sunlight, improper storage, and temperature. Properly following the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines can extend your life raft's lifespan considerably.

Switlik Life Raft for Sale "Near Me"

When it comes to survival at sea, a reliable life raft is not merely a luxury but a necessity. Ensuring the durability and lifespan of a life raft remain intact requires regular maintenance by professionals. Switlik life rafts are designed with uncompromised quality, performance, and reliability, making them a top choice for many pilots, sailors, and ship owners. When shopping for a life raft, be sure to look at the manufacturer's safety standards, the durability of the product, and the maintenance requirements–and for that, you really can’t beat Switlik.  

Prepare for any event with the experienced team at the Life Raft Store–where all we do is rafts. Keep your head above water with us and become the best captain or pilot you can be! Call us today at (321)821-4727 to get your questions answered!