A Lifesaver That Can Save Lives in Critical Moments! A Complete Guide To Operating Ship Life Rafts

In critical moments when a ship is in distress and must abandon ship, correctly operating a life raft is a crucial step in ensuring safety. This seemingly small piece of equipment has a simple yet interconnected operating procedure; mastering the steps is essential to seizing a chance of survival in perilous maritime situations.

The operation of a life raft mainly consists of two core steps: deployment from the ship and boarding in the water. The specific steps are as follows:

1. Triggering the Release Device: 

After a ship encounters distress, first confirm that the life raft container's locking clips are unlocked. Most inflatable life rafts are equipped with a Hydrostatic pressure relief unit (HRU); when the ship sinks to a depth of 1.5-4 meters, the device will automatically cut the ropes and release the life raft. If manual operation is required, simply pull the ring next to the container to start the inflation process; the entire process takes only 10-15 seconds.

2. Confirming the Raft's Formation: 

After the life raft detaches from the ship, the high-pressure gas cylinder will quickly inflate the raft. Once it has fully expanded into an elliptical float and is stably floating on the water, then proceed with boarding. Do not pull on the raft before it has fully formed, as this may damage the airtight structure.

3. Orderly Boarding of the Liferaft

Remain calm when boarding. Climb the liferaft sequentially from the boarding ladder or entrance. Never jump directly into the raft from a height to avoid damaging the raft bottom or causing injury. Once on board, immediately retract the boarding ladder and secure yourself to the raft using the ropes provided to prevent being swept away by waves.

4. Activating Survival Equipment

Once inside the raft, immediately open the survival kit at the bottom of the raft and retrieve fresh water and compressed biscuits to replenish your energy. Simultaneously, use flares, reflectors, and high-frequency whistles to continuously send distress signals to the outside world. If the liferaft capsizes, use the self-righting device on both sides to flip it back to its original position.

NOTE:

It is particularly important to note that routine inspections and maintenance of life rafts are equally crucial. According to the SOLAS Convention, life rafts must undergo a professional inspection every 12 months, including replacing expired gas cylinders and survival supplies, to ensure absolute preparedness in emergencies. In maritime survival, every operational detail can be a matter of life and death; mastering the operation of a life raft is the most reliable safety guarantee during voyages.

Container

HRU

Life raft

Open

Life Raft

Davit-launched

Life Raft

Throwable

Life Raft

Yacht

Life Raft

Self-righting

Life Raft