Abstract: A personal inflatable flotation apparatus comprising a flotation unit and an enclosure for the flotation unit. The flotation unit comprises an inflatable flotation bladder of sufficient size to provide flotation support to the user; a cannister of compressed gas for inflating the bladder; and an inflation valve connecting the bladder and the cannister, which when actuated releases the gas from the cannister to inflate the bladder. The enclosure comprises at least first and second enclosure members that interfit to form an enclosure for the flotation unit. The first enclosure member comprises a generally cylindrical hollow member, and the second enclosure member comprises a closure for the first enclosure member. A portion of the flotation unit is attached to the first enclosure member so that as the first and second members are separated the flotation unit is pulled from the first enclosure member.

Abstract: A self-contained, self-inflating balloon unit comprising a closed, inflatable balloon, a cannister containing compressed gas, at least partly inside the balloon, and a device for releasing the compressed gas from the cannister into the balloon to inflate the balloon. The balloon comprises an inflatable body portion and a neck portion, and the cannister is located in the neck portion. The cannister is preferably slidably mounted in a sleeve in the neck portion of the balloon. The sleeve includes a pin for rupturing the cannister when the cannister is urged against it. A one-way valve allows the gas to inflate the body portion but prevents its escape.In some embodiments the unit also includes a tether which is connected at one end to the sleeve and at the other end to the cannister. After the balloon is inflated, the cannister can be removed from the sleeve, extending the tether. The empty cannister serves as a handle for the tether.