DE3101597

An inflatable life preserver of the encapsulated type encircling the neck of a wearer includes an inflatable cell or cells confined within a protective cover when in collapsed condition. The cover, formed of a strong fabric or other flexible material, comprises a pair of panels between which the cell is confined. The panels are permanently secured along the edge of a neck-encircling, center opening of the cover. The outer edges of the panels are separably connected, to confine the collapsed cells. Inflation of the cells causes separation of the panels. A protective flap is substantially coextensive in area and configuration with the panels, and lies between the panels so that the cover is in effect composed of three layers. The cells are confined between the flap and one of the panels, the flap being secured along its outer edge to said one panel while having its inner edge left free. In the event of accidental separation of the panels with the cells collapsed, the cells are not exposed, and are protected against damage by reason of being still confined between the flap and the panel to which it is connected. The flap and the panel to which it is connected thus form an auxiliary protective capsule or enclosure for the collapsed cells, which comes into use in the event of accidental opening of the primary enclosure constituted by the main cover panels.