Gifford confirms that “the Coast Guard does not have a mandatory remove-from-service timeframe for wearable PFDs.” Instead, he suggests that your vest’s lifespan depends on how well you look after it. For inflatable lifejackets, check the manufacturer’s expiry dates for the gas cylinder and components, and be aware that the jacket will need to be rearmed after each inflation. Dann says that “lifejackets need regular servicing, and it’s important to have yours serviced safely at a place approved by the manufacturer.”