Boaties are being urged to ensure they regularly check and service their inflatable life-jackets, so that they're fully functioning in times of need.

Research undertaken by Waikato Regional Council last summer shows although a large number of boaties own an inflatable life-jacket, many don't know they need regular checking and servicing.

The council's maritime services team leader Richard Barnett said that's concerning from a safety perspective.

Mr Barnett said although boaties think they’re doing the right thing by having an inflatable lifejacket onboard, because of this lack of awareness around servicing, these life-jackets may not work.

He said it is imperative they know what type of life-jacket they own, how it works and how and when it must be serviced or checked.