Horseshoe Lifebuoy

A horseshoe-shaped buoyant rescue aid intended to be deployed to a person in the water.

Its open shape can make it easier to place around the casualty than a closed ring. Depending on the installation, it may be fitted with a drogue, light, whistle, retrieval line or marker pole, but these additions and any approval standard must be checked rather than assumed.

It should be immediately accessible, capable of floating free or being released quickly as intended, and inspected for degradation, damage and secure accessories. Deployment provides flotation and a visible reference; it does not replace prompt manoeuvring, continuous pointing and a planned recovery method.