What are categorized as secondary flotation devices on the 737?

In the context of aviation safety and the equipment found on aircraft like the Boeing 737, secondary flotation devices are those that assist in keeping passengers safe in the event of an emergency landing on water. Single lane slides are categorized as secondary flotation devices because they provide a means for evacuation while also offering some level of flotation capability. In contrast to primary flotation devices, which typically include life rafts or vests that are specifically designed for buoyancy in water, single lane slides serve a dual purpose. They allow for the rapid descent of passengers during an emergency evacuation and can also provide flotation assistance if the aircraft ends up in water.

Life rafts and inflatable slides, while crucial for emergency procedures, fall into different categories based on their intended use and function. Life vests are primary flotation devices meant for individual passenger use, rather than offering broader evacuation capabilities like the single lane slide. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for flight attendants as they must be knowledgeable about emergency equipment and procedures to enhance passenger safety.