Abstract: An inflatable bouyancy aid comprises an elongate, straight inflatable member, and a securing device attached to and extending from the inflatable member and adapted to encircle the trunk part of the body of a wearer. An actuating device is associated with a gas producing device located in or adjacent the inflatable member such that on operation of the actuating device an amount of gas flows into the inflatable member so as to inflate it and provide buoyancy for the wearer. The securing device extends from two positions spaced apart and removed from each end of the inflatable member to leave two end portions of the inflatable member, when inflated, extending in substantial tangential fashion from the body of the wearer.