Abstract: A rescue device for use with a helicopter comprises a floatation ring large enough to surround several standing persons and a rigid, non-buoyant open decking capable of supporting those persons. A collapsable netting surrounds the deck and connects the floatation ring thereto. The floatation ring has sufficient buoyancy to support the whole device when in the water with the deck suspended below the water level and with several persons standing on the deck and who are partially submerged. Supporting cables for use with a helicopter hoist are fixed both to the ring and to the deck so that when the device is lifted the ring is held a predetermined distance above the deck.