Motivation for the Development of the SOS Dan Buoy

Improvement in Marine safety is the driving force behind the development of the SOS Dan Buoy. MOB is one of the greatest risks at sea and location of the person is the first step for recovery.

At sea not everybody has instant access to GPS technology, the life ring has really not changed in 50 years; life jackets, life rafts etc have all been improved over the years, but the area of practical marking a location has not been addressed, hence the development of the SOS Dan Buoy.

The SOS Dan Buoy is a compact inflatable marker, designed to be thrown overboard without the need to set or activate. Within seconds of immersion, it inflates and stands 2 metres above the water. A large drogue restricts its drift to the sea currents comparable to the overboard person. It has webbing loops (Patented) at water level allowing the person to put their arms around it to help support themselves. A natural reaction is for the person to move towards a visible floating object. Note: handles create cramps in the hands after a short time therefore the ability to put your arms around provides a more comfortable and practicable solution.

The visibility is enhanced by using fluorescent yellow material, SOLAS reflective tape and a fluorescent yellow 2.5 metre tape which waves back and forth in the breeze allowing it to be seen 1700 metres away. A pea less whistle is attached to assist gaining attention.

It is compact; being the size of a ladies handbag uses weights to make it stand vertically in the water and comes in 2 sizes: for larger boats & ships- 60 gram cylinder weighing 7.5kg and for the smaller boats 33 gram cylinder weighing 3.5kg.

The SOS Dan Buoy is reusable as it employs the same mechanism as an inflatable life jacket. It requires the replacement of the cylinder and activation cartridge, the cover has a clear window enabling it to be checked.

It is practicable, compact, easily stowed and more likely to be used than a life ring. It has also been tested to appropriate elements of the ISO 12402 Standard for Life Jackets.

The SOS Dan Buoy has been used in air sea rescues, being dropped from a helicopter as a marker for rescue craft to centre their search. It can be used in salt water and fresh water; it is not restricted by the size of boat, nor restricted by language, age or sex of the user.

SOS Marine an ISO 9001 company established over 30 years has designed manufactured and patented the SOS Dan Buoy.