SWITLIK is taking a new look at flotation for "Person in Water" (PIW) emergencies, focusing on underarm flotation. The newly developed Underarm Flotation Device (UFD) provides over 35 pounds of inflated buoyancy, and ints unique configuration keeps the PIW's head and shoulders out of the water more effectively than traditional means of rescue flotation. This allows for the victim to assist in their own rescue when possible. The UFD is made with the same materials as SWITLIK life rafts.
From SWITLIK: "With the MOM 8 the only focus is on pulling a single pin. Located on the top of the canister is a deployment handle, which when pulled, releases the bottom of the canister and allows the inflatable devices to automatically inflate while falling into the water. When inflated, the ballasted Locator Pylon has a 6-foot waterline height. Located on top of the pylon is a water-activated, lithium-powered, flashing light with 5 years of life. The light can be seen nearly a nautical mile under normal night conditions. The pylon has 2 SOLAS reflective panels to aid the boat's search. Tethered to the horseshoe and the pylon is a 16" diameter, ballasted, self-opening Sea Anchor to reduce downwind drift keeping the victim in the same position as when he went overboard."
For more information, click here, and be sure to come to the Annapolis Sailboat Show to see the UFD up close and in person.
