Life Raft

Life rafts are inflatable emergency flotation devices designed for use at sea. They provide a safe means of evacuation in case of maritime emergencies, ensuring passengers can remain afloat until rescued. Unlike lifeboats, life rafts are typically inflatable and designed to automatically deploy when needed. They are compact, lightweight, and often packed in canisters that are easy to store on board ships, airplanes, and other vessels. Key Features of a Life Raft:

1. Inflatable Design: Life rafts are stored compactly and inflate upon deployment, usually using a compressed gas system. When released, they can inflate within minutes.

2. Automatic Deployment: Life rafts are usually equipped with hydrostatic release mechanisms. When submerged in water or triggered manually, the raft is automatically released and inflates.

3. Capacity: Life rafts come in various sizes, typically designed to hold between 6 to 100 or more people, depending on the vessel's size.

4. Survival Equipment: Most life rafts are equipped with essential survival items, such as: Rations (food and water) Emergency locator beacons or flares First aid kits Fishing gear Thermal blankets and rainwater catchment systems

5. Shelter: Some life rafts come with canopies or covers to protect survivors from the elements like wind, rain, and sun.

6. SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Requirements: Commercial life rafts are designed to meet the standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), specifically under the SOLAS convention. These standards ensure that the rafts are durable, stable, and able to support survivors for extended periods if necessary.

Deployment and Use: Life rafts are typically launched from a ship by throwing the canister overboard, where it floats. The raft then inflates either manually or through an automatic release mechanism. They are designed to keep survivors safe from drowning, hypothermia, and exposure to harsh weather conditions while awaiting rescue.

Life Raft Features:

• Durable Materials: Constructed from high-quality, puncture-resistant fabrics.
• Rapid Inflation System: Quick and easy deployment in emergencies.
• Integrated Safety Features: Includes signaling devices, survival gear, and buoyancy aids.
• Compliance with Maritime Regulations: Meets all necessary safety standards for maritime equipment.