USCG warns over leaky lifejacket lights

The US Coast Guard has recently received a safety bulletin from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), reporting problems with lifejacket lights. The bulletin relates to Alcares water activated flashing lifejacket lights models Jack A1-ALK and Jack ARH-ALK (CG approval numbers 161.112/88 and 161.112/90).

To date, inspections have discovered over 3,000 non-operational lights. All of the faulty lights discovered had leaky batteries, and some were identified as having incorrect battery expiration labels. All of the faulty lights were found to be non-operational before their expiration date. 

As a result, the US Coast Guard recommends that:

• Lifejackets with lights, especially those with automatic lights, be stored in temperature and humidity controlled, water-tight environments.
• Visual inspections and tests must be conducted in accordance with vessel carriage requirements and manufacturer manuals.
• Vessel owners/operators should check their lifejacket lights to verify that they are operational at the nearest opportunity.