Among the many items a new member hears mentioned is the Mustang.  What's a Mustang?  (No, it is not Ford's answer to the Camaro.)  Mustang Survival is a company that makes protective flotation equipment, and "Mustang" is often used as a generic name.  This equipment includes several varieties of Protective Flotation Devices (PFD), "float coats" that are coats with built-in flotation, and full length anti-exposure coveralls that offer protection in cold water.   These anti-exposure coveralls are often just called "Mustangs."

Auxiliarists always wear some type of flotation device when we are on a boat.  We also wear these when we are on the dock working with lines.  When the water temperature drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, Mustangs are required.  Auxiliarists in San Francisco Bay always wear Mustangs since the water is never above 60 degrees F.  On a cold day or at night this is great, but on a warm day you can hear a lot of complaining.  But no one would complain if they fell in since at these water temperatures hypothermia is a serious problem and a Mustang will extend the time a person in the water (PIW) can be safe.

A dry suit is required when the water temperature drops below 50 degrees F.  In really freezing water such as in Alaska someone might wear a "gumby."  This is an extreme cold weather suit that covers the wearer except for the face, has no fingers in the mitts, is bulky and uncomfortable, and is mainly intended for abandoning ship.  

Auxiliarists must have reflective tape on their flotation gear and must carry a whistle, a signaling mirror, and a light (chemical light sticks are OK).  You'll also sometimes see people wearing a mesh vest with many pockets over their flotation gear.  This is a Search and Rescue (SAR) vest that, in addition to the whistle, mirror, and light, can contain smoke and aerial flares, a survival knife, and a radio locator beacon (EPRIB).  Chapter 6, Survival Equipment and Pyrotechnics in the Boat Crew Seamanship Manual goes into more detail about flotation devices and survival equipment.

Auxiliarists demonstrating that a dry suit really can offer protection in cold water. (Note the snow on the USCG Defender Class boat.)  (photo J. Leth)

Many Other Stories

...to be completed!