Water RAT flotation device
Quick-inflating tube could save your life if caught in a ripA clever new personal flotation device has hit the market, designed to keep you safe when swimming or spending time around water.
Motivated by the 250 or so swimming-related deaths in Australia each year, and following his own personal experience of being caught in a rip, Woombye, Queensland-based retiree Murray Rogers invented the Water RAT (Rip Aid Tube), a compact, easy-to-carry device that can be quickly inflated if experiencing swimming difficulties.
Rogers says the Water RAT is the result of many years trial and error trying to come up with a “simple, attractive, and reliable swimming safety device that swimmers can wear and use if they get into difficulties”.
As well as swimmers caught in rips, the device is aimed at those fishing off rocks, and users of small personal water craft like kayaks and stand-up paddle boards that could capsize.
Utilising bicycle tyre inflation technology, the Water RAT consists of a tube, small CO2 gas cylinder and ‘activator’ switch that, when turned inflates the tube into a floating ring that can be used to keep afloat while swimming to safety.
The personal flotation device is rated for near-shore use and offers more buoyancy than a boating life jacket, according to laboratory tests.
The Water RAT can be carried on a belt around the waist, or in a specially designed neoprene pouch attached to an arm-band. If in trouble it should only take a few seconds to pull out and inflate.
It’s also available in a zip-lock plastic storage bag for ‘man overboard’ situations on larger boats and yachts. This version also comes with an attached glow and signaling torch for night rescues.
Rogers says the Water RAT is made from durable materials and only needs a rinse in fresh water after use. Every device is tested before sale, and comes with a warranty.
Pricing for both Water RAT versions worn on the body is $69.99, with replacement cylinders available for $39.99.
See the Water RAT website for further details, and watch the video below to see how it works.
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