Lifebuoys
We offer a variety of lifebuoys.
Our lifebuoys are made of polystyrene, polyethylene, or hard plastic.
The Perry Buoy lifebuoy also has MED approval.
European Marine Equipment Directive (MED)
The European Marine Equipment Directive 96/98/EC (Marine Equipment Directive – MED) applies to all flags of EU member states, including the German flag. The aim of this directive is to ensure the free movement of marine equipment while maintaining a uniform level of safety within the EU. Marine equipment certified by a notified body for testing and certification may be used on any vessel flying an EU flag without further testing. Certified marine equipment is marked with a wheel symbol. (BG Verkehr)
A lifebuoy is a piece of safety equipment used in water rescue services. It is frequently used in indoor and outdoor swimming pools but is also used in natural bodies of water. A ring-shaped swimming aid used as a learning or play device is called a swim ring or swim tube. Lifebuoys are either hollow or filled with foam.
With a rope
Lifebuoys with a rope are held at the end of the rope and thrown with a flick of the wrist over the person to be rescued. The ring can then be pulled toward the person in distress.
Advantages:
- Easy to use
- Quickly ready for use
Disadvantages:
- Only possible if the person is conscious
- Limited operating range
Without a rope
The lifebuoy must be thrown with a flick of the wrist toward the person in distress, but it cannot be pulled toward them.
Advantages:
- (Almost) universally available
- No risk to the rescuer
Disadvantages:
- Difficult to use
- Requires considerable practice
- Only possible if the person is conscious
Water Rescue
The lifeguard swims toward the person in distress with a lifebuoy. The rescuer places their upper arms on the ring and brings the person back to the shore or pool edge.
Advantages:
- Available (almost) everywhere
- Usable even with unconscious individuals
Disadvantages:
- Requires extensive practice
- Rescuer must enter the water (safety concerns)
History
The first design of a lifebuoy dates back to Leonardo da Vinci (16th century). (Wikipedia)