Every year, first responders and citizens are needlessly lost due to flash floods or while attempting to evacuate flooded areas. Most could have been saved if they had a personal flotation device available. But even those who had access to PFDs had become separated from them, usually, because they were stored in a trunk, back seat or boat they no longer had access to. Now there is an emergency PFD small enough to be carried in a pocket.
A Pocket PFD
The Micro Inflatable Emergency Vest (RBA-100) by FirstWatch is truly groundbreaking when it comes to protection during flash floods or evacuation situations. Anyone who has ever worked in a sudden flood emergency knows that carrying a full-size PFD can be cumbersome when you do not need it and that water can rise so fast that do not need it can change to must have it in a matter of minutes. With the Micro Vest, there is no reason you can not have your PFD ready and available at all time.
The RBA-100 may look familiar- a lot like the safety vests that airliners have been using for decades. The difference is now it is packed in a tiny environmentally sealed pack about the same size as the average smartphone. Once removed it is as simple as placing the collar over your head, inflating via the oral inflation tube and securing to your waist.
FEATURES
• Small size that allows storage in a pocket, mass transportation during rescue operations or even deployment via drone.
• Weighs only 1.32 lbs.
• Ease to throw to potential victims
• Sealed pack floats
• Hi-vis bladder with multiple reflective patches for nighttime use
• 19 lbs of buoyancy
• Reusable and can even be repacked in carrying case.
If you live or work in a flood-prone area there is no longer a reason to be caught in a dangerous, life-threatening situation without your very own PFD. Homeowners can add one to their survival kits or carry another in their vehicle. First responders can add theirs to a go bag and carry a dozen or more in the same space as a normal lunch box. A single rescue boat could carry enough to supply an entire neighborhood.
First responders are bombarded with the latest fads, must have gadgets and tools they will never really use. The Micro Inflatable Emergency Vest is different. This is one item you hope is never needed, but there is no doubt it could be the difference between rescue and recovery if the need arises. For additional information contact FirstWatch at info@firstwatchgear.com.
Disclaimer: The content in this article is the opinion of the writer and does not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of US Patriot Tactical.
