How should lifebuoy and flare equipment be maintained?

• A. Flares do not expire; lifebelts and PFDs require no inspection.
• B. Flares have expiration dates; lifebelts and PFDs should be inspected per manufacturer guidance; replace damaged or expired gear.
• C. Only lifebuoys require maintenance; flares are disposable.
• D. Flares should be stored underwater.

Answer: (B)

Regular maintenance of signaling devices and life-saving gear means checking expiration dates, testing, and replacing as needed. Flares have expiration dates because their chemical components degrade over time, which can cause them to fail or produce unreliable signals when you need them. Lifebelts and PFDs should be inspected per the manufacturer’s guidance—look for damaged fabric, seams, buoyancy material, and secure fastenings. If anything is worn, torn, or its buoyancy is compromised, or if the gear is past its service life, replace it. Store equipment properly, keep flares up to date, and replace damaged or expired gear to stay ready. The other options imply flares never expire, or that certain gear doesn’t require inspection, or that flares should be stored underwater, which are incorrect practices.