Which of the following is a general characteristic of life rafts?

Life rafts are designed with the critical feature of floating automatically upon deployment, which ensures that they are immediately available for use in emergencies. This characteristic is vital for survival at sea, as it allows the raft to be ready without delay when a vessel is abandoned, making it a reliable option for individuals needing to reach safety quickly.

The automatic flotation mechanism typically involves the life raft being packed in a container with a CO2 inflation system. When released, the raft inflates swiftly and floats to the surface, providing a secure space for survivors. This function is essential for maximizing the chances of survival in distress situations at sea.

While some life rafts may contain GPS systems or come with emergency supplies, these features are not universal to all life rafts and can vary based on design and regulations. Additionally, many modern life rafts are designed for automatic inflation rather than manual inflation to enhance their usability in emergency situations.