Abstract: An individual's location is marked to facilitate rescue even under windy weather conditions by using a device including a deflated kite-type balloon attached to a secured line. When rescue is desired, the deflated kite-type balloon is inflated with lighter than air gas and released while secured by the line.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and device 10 for marking an individual's location to facilitate rescue. The method comprises the step of removing a cover member or cap 24 of the device 10 which contains an inflatable balloon 40 to open a valve 28 of a cylinder 18 containing a pressurized, lighter than air gas which inflates a balloon 40, so that the balloon rises in the atmosphere. The balloon 40 is tied to one end of a line 48 that has another end attached to the device 10. Thus, the balloon 40 travels upward a distance essentially equal to the length of the line 48, hovering overhead to identify the individual's location.