A ship at sea must be prepared for every eventuality, from medical emergencies to abandon-ship situations. The presence and readiness of life saving appliances (LSA) are not just legal requirements but vital safeguards for the lives of everyone on board. Understanding the common LSAs found on ships and their critical functions is essential for shipowners, crew, and passengers alike. Here’s a closer look at the equipment that stands between danger and survival at sea Life Saving Appliances On Ship.

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### 1. Lifeboats

**Function:**

Lifeboats are rigid, enclosed or partially enclosed boats designed to evacuate crew and passengers in case of abandonment. Each lifeboat is fitted with survival gear, including water, food rations, first aid kits, and signaling devices. Modern lifeboats are often self-righting and have engines for maneuvering away from the ship.

**Critical Role:**

Lifeboats provide a safe, stable refuge, protecting occupants from the elements and increasing chances of rescue.

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### 2. Life Rafts

**Function:**

Life rafts are inflatable, compact, and easy to deploy. They automatically inflate once released into the water and come equipped with essential supplies for survival.

**Critical Role:**

Life rafts serve as alternative evacuation options when lifeboats cannot be launched, ensuring everyone has a place of refuge in emergencies.

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### 3. Life Jackets

**Function:**

Life jackets, or personal flotation devices (PFDs), keep individuals afloat and their airways above water, even if unconscious. They come in various sizes to fit all ages and body types.

**Critical Role:**

Providing buoyancy and visibility, life jackets are the first line of defense in man-overboard situations, dramatically improving survival odds.

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### 4. Immersion Suits

**Function:**

Immersion suits, also known as survival suits, protect the wearer from hypothermia in cold water by insulating and reducing exposure.

**Critical Role:**

In frigid conditions, immersion suits can mean the difference between life and death, extending the time a person can survive until rescue.

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### 5. Life Buoys

**Function:**

Life buoys are ring-shaped flotation devices stationed at strategic points along a ship’s railings. They are designed to be thrown quickly to anyone who falls overboard.

**Critical Role:**

Life buoys provide immediate flotation support, keeping victims afloat and increasing their visibility in the water.

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### 6. Distress Signaling Devices

- **EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons):** Automatically transmit the ship’s location to rescue authorities when activated.

- **SARTs (Search and Rescue Transponders):** Help rescuers locate life rafts or lifeboats using radar signals.

- **Pyrotechnics (Flares and Rockets):** Used to visually signal distress and attract attention from nearby ships or aircraft.

**Critical Role:**

These devices are crucial for alerting rescuers and guiding them to the ship or survivors, expediting rescue operations.

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### 7. Rescue Boats

**Function:**

Rescue boats are fast, maneuverable vessels used to recover persons from the water or assist in lifesaving operations.

**Critical Role:**

They facilitate rapid response to emergencies, such as man-overboard situations, and provide additional support during abandon-ship procedures.

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### Why Proper Life Saving Appliances Matter

Having the right life saving appliances, properly maintained and easily accessible, is non-negotiable for any seagoing vessel. Regular drills, crew training, and equipment inspections are just as important as the appliances themselves. In emergencies, these critical tools make the difference between tragedy and rescue, ensuring every voyage is as safe as possible.

At Dipti Fire Services, we understand the importance of reliable, certified life saving appliances. Our range of shipboard safety equipment is designed to meet international standards and keep your crew and passengers protected, no matter the conditions at sea

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