Abstract: An apparatus that facilitates search and rescue, for example, in open water. The apparatus comprises a substrate with a particular geometry and a perimeter. The apparatus further comprises a cover positioned atop the substrate with the cover also having a particular geometry and perimeter, which correspond to the geometry and perimeter of the substrate. An air-tight seal seals the substrate perimeter to the cover perimeter and creates a sealed internal region. A liquid-releasable vessel holding an illuminable dye located in the sealed internal region, along with an activator that is also located in the sealed internal region. When the liquid-releasable vessel releases the illuminable dye, the illuminable dye reacts with the activator, thereby resulting in illumination of the illuminable dye. The liquid-releasable vessel comprises an opening with a release mechanism (e.g., clamp, etc.).