How necessary is it really to service Liferafts every 2-3 years? I realize I'm questioning serious safety issues and at the risk of sounding too cavalier and foolhardy I wonder how long the CO2 canisters hold their charge and how well the rubber/seams hold up in a sealed package. If you are coastal cruising in well-traveled warm waters and within an hour or 2 of coast guard assistance how often should one certify a liferaft? Has anyone successfully or unsuccessfully deployed rafts that were many years expired?
Then there is the other side of the coin, I don't want to disparage anyone but there are many posts complaining about poor or unprofessional service, has anyone had (or know of) a recently certified liferaft that failed?
If I were going to be cruising far off shore or in cold waters I would not be asking this question. I’d be interested in all thoughts on the subject. Thanks
Then there is the other side of the coin, I don't want to disparage anyone but there are many posts complaining about poor or unprofessional service, has anyone had (or know of) a recently certified liferaft that failed?
If I were going to be cruising far off shore or in cold waters I would not be asking this question. I’d be interested in all thoughts on the subject. Thanks