Horseshoe Lifebuoy

A U-shaped flotation device designed to be thrown to a person overboard to provide buoyancy and aid in rescue.

The horseshoe lifebuoy, also known as a horseshoe ring or horseshoe buoy, is a critical piece of safety equipment commonly found on recreational and commercial vessels. Its distinctive U-shape allows it to fit snugly around the torso of a person in the water, providing immediate buoyancy and helping to keep the individual afloat until further assistance can be provided. Unlike traditional circular lifebuoys, the horseshoe design is often preferred for its ease of handling and ability to be deployed quickly. 

Typically made from durable, buoyant materials such as closed-cell foam and covered in a brightly coloured, weather-resistant fabric (often orange or yellow for high visibility), the horseshoe lifebuoy is designed to withstand harsh marine environments. It is usually mounted on the stern or railings of a boat, within easy reach for rapid deployment in an emergency. Some models come equipped with additional safety features such as reflective tape, grab lines, or even automatic lights that activate when they come into contact with water, improving visibility during night-time rescues.

In practice, the horseshoe lifebuoy is thrown towards a person who has fallen overboard, allowing them to grab onto it and remain buoyant while the crew manoeuvres the vessel for recovery. It is often used in conjunction with a lifebuoy holder or bracket, and sometimes a retrieval line is attached to facilitate pulling the person back towards the boat.