COMDTINST 10470.10I — Rescue And Survival Systems

COMDTINST 10470.10I governs the use, configuration, maintenance, logistics, and procurement of Coast Guard rescue and survival equipment.

Search COMDTINST 10470.10I

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 10470.10I
  • Title: RESCUE AND SURVIVAL SYSTEMS
  • Date: 7/17/2026
  • Proponent: CG-731

View COMDTINST 10470.10I on armypubs.army.mil


The publication addresses procurement and lifecycle management, personal equipment issuance, flotation devices, cold-weather equipment, ice rescue, deployable specialized forces, and flood response. It establishes equipment standards and procurement authorization and identifies required equipment, wear, maintenance, and accountability provisions.

Topics covered

  • Rescue and survival equipment
  • Personal flotation devices
  • Cold-weather equipment
  • Ice rescue equipment
  • Flood response equipment
  • Deployable Specialized Forces equipment
  • Equipment service life

Questions and answers

Who does COMDTINST 10470.10I apply to?

The policies in this Instruction apply to all Active Duty, Reserve, Auxiliary Facilities under orders, scheduled mission personnel, scheduled passengers, and unscheduled passengers embarked on Coast Guard and non-Coast Guard vessels, and shoreside personnel. Additionally, this Instruction applies to operations conducted on or near the water where personnel could accidentally fall in or otherwise be exposed to water hazards. (paragraph 5)

What is the maximum service life of a dry suit?

The total service life of a dry suit must not exceed eight years from its original inservice date. (paragraph 2)

What must happen before a dry suit is placed into service?

WARNING: All dry suits must be leak-tested by the member to whom the dry suit is being issued prior to being placed into service. (paragraph 2)

When must personnel wear cold weather boots?

Personnel must wear the cold weather boot when the dry suit is required to be worn in accordance with Figure 1-2 and Figure 1-3. (paragraph 7)

What equipment must ice rescue personnel wear during ice rescue operations or training?

Freezing air and water temperatures significantly increase the onset of hypothermia; therefore all Ice Rescue personnel must wear the Base Layer and Thermal Layer under their dry suits when conducting ice rescue operations or training exercises. (paragraph 2)

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