Abstract: A manual inflation component (13) for a personal flotation device (16) is provided in which the manual inflation device provides the antenna (17) for a warning device, as well as providing for inflation of the personal flotation device by the wearer. The component itself, personal flotation devices including it, warning systems including it and methods of manufacture are also provided. The manual inflation component (13) is well positioned on the personal flotation device to serve the role of transmission location.

Abstract: An emergency warning device (10) is disclosed which comprises an overboard detection device (15) arranged to determine when an overboard situation exists, a transmitter (14) for transmitting a warning signal indicative of an overboard situation, and a transmission control sensor (22) arranged to produce transmission control information indicative of whether the device is appropriately disposed for transmission of a warning signal. The device (10) is arranged to transmit the warning signal when an overboard situation is determined and when said transmission control information indicates that the device is appropriately disposed for transmission of a warning signal.