Abstract: The present invention relates to a flotation device which can be brought into use during an emergency to assist somebody to stay afloat in water. A flotation device can be carried by a person undertaking water sports. It includes a carrier carrying a float, and the float itself. The carrier is in the form or a pouch or holder which can be attached to the arm or leg of the swimmer. The float is normally in a deflated, non-buoyant state held by the carrier. When the swimmer wishes to bring the float into use, he pulls it out of the carrier and inflates it.