Marine life-saving items are crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals at sea. These items are designed to aid in emergencies and provide assistance in various situations. Common marine life-saving items include:
Life Jackets or Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs):
These are worn by individuals to provide buoyancy and keep them afloat in the water. They come in various types, including inflatable and foam-filled.
Lifebuoys or Ring Buoys:
These are throwable flotation devices with a buoyant ring attached to a line. They can be thrown to a person in distress to provide support.
Life Rafts:
Inflatable life rafts are designed to accommodate multiple people in the event of a ship evacuation. They provide a secure and buoyant platform for survival.
Lifeboat:
Lifeboats are larger, more substantial vessels that can be launched from a ship to provide shelter and support for a larger number of people. They often contain supplies for survival.
Immersion Suits or Survival Suits:
These are insulated suits designed to keep individuals afloat and provide thermal protection in cold water. They are often worn by crew members in harsh maritime conditions.
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB):
EPIRBs are electronic devices that, when activated, transmit a distress signal with the vessel's position to search and rescue satellites.
Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs):
Similar to EPIRBs, PLBs are smaller distress beacons carried by individuals. When activated, they transmit a distress signal and location information.
Flares:
Handheld or aerial flares are used for signaling in emergency situations. They produce bright light and are visible from a distance, aiding in search and rescue efforts.
Whistles and Horns:
These audible signaling devices can be used to attract attention in case of an emergency. They are often attached to life jackets.
Rescue Nets and Ladders:
These devices assist in the retrieval of people from the water, especially in situations where they need to be lifted onto a vessel.
Fire Extinguishers:
Essential for combating onboard fires and ensuring the safety of passengers and crew.
Emergency Escape Breathing Devices (EEBD):
These are designed to provide a short-term air supply in case of a fire or other emergencies, allowing individuals to escape from confined spaces.
It's important for vessels to be equipped with the necessary life-saving items, and crew members should be trained in their proper use. Regular inspections and maintenance of these items are critical to ensure their effectiveness in emergencies.
