Abstract: There is described herein an apparatus for providing buoyancy and/or facilitating rescue of a person or object. The apparatus includes a tubular sleeve for securing the apparatus around at least a portion of a person or an object wherein longitudinal extension of the sleeve causes the diameter of the sleeve to contract radially to grip the person or object or a portion thereof and wherein longitudinal compression of the sleeve causes the diameter of the sleeve to expand. The apparatus may further include a structure coupled to the tubular sleeve for attaching the apparatus to rescue equipment and/or for providing a handle and/or at least one flotation device coupled to the tubular sleeve.

Abstract: There is described herein apparatus for providing buoyancy and/or facilitating rescue of a person or object. The apparatus includes a tubular sleeve for securing the apparatus around at least a portion of a person or an object wherein longitudinal extension of the sleeve causes the diameter of the sleeve to contract radially to grip the person or object or a portion thereof and wherein longitudinal compression of the sleeve causes the diameter of the sleeve to expand. The apparatus may further include attachment means coupled to the tubular sleeve for attaching the apparatus to rescue equipment and/or for providing a handle and/or at least one flotation means coupled to the tubular sleeve.