A lifebuoy is a water rescue device typically made of lightweight materials such as cork, foam plastic, or other buoyant substances covered with canvas or plastic.

Rubber lifebuoys, filled with air, are also used for swimming practice, commonly known as swim rings.

It's crucial to note that a swim ring is not a lifebuoy and should never be used as a life-saving device. The national standards for swim rings and lifebuoys differ significantly, with the latter designed for life-saving purposes and equipped with various additional functions. Swim rings, defined as water toys, adhere only to toy standards.

Consequently, swim rings are prone to damage, air leakage, low-pressure resistance, and potential bursting. Their plastic surface becomes slippery when wet, making them challenging to grip. While they may offer some assistance or protection in water leisure activities, they pose risks when brought into deep water.

Common lifebuoys on international seafaring vessels can be categorized into those with self-igniting smoke signals and self-luminous light combinations, those with buoyant rescue lines, those with self-luminous lights, and standard lifebuoys.

Lifebuoys do not exist as standalone units regarding firefighting equipment requirements on ships. To fully utilize their role in maritime search and rescue missions, lifebuoys are integral components within a broader firefighting strategy.

The inspection of lifebuoys focuses on ensuring the correct quantity, proper attachment and connection of accessories, immediate usability, and a minimum weight of 2.5kg for each. Reflective tapes, clear external conditions, absence of paint covering, proper labelling with ship name and port of registry, and the appropriate number of self-luminous lights are crucial inspection points.

Using self-luminous lights on lifebuoys enhances visibility after immersion in water, emitting a bright light that remains unaffected by water. International maritime standards stipulate specific requirements for the number and performance of these lights. Safety ropes attached to lifebuoys, or floating rescue ropes, must meet length requirements and be inspected for strength without any knots during storage or use.

Key inspection points for lifebuoys include verifying the correct quantity, proper attachment of accessories, immediate usability, weight compliance, presence of reflective tape, external condition, absence of paint covering, adequate labelling, self-luminous light requirements, and surrounding rescue ropes.

With their buoyant presence and life-saving potential, lifebuoys stand as guardians on the seas. Their significance goes beyond mere equipment, embodying a commitment to maritime safety. Rigorous inspections, adherence to international standards, and awareness of the distinctions between life-saving and recreational devices underscore their pivotal role.

As vessels traverse the waves, these humble yet crucial tools symbolize a collective dedication to safeguarding lives at sea. In their simplicity, lifebuoys echo the profound responsibility shared by seafarers and maritime authorities, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and diligence for the well-being of all who navigate the vast and unpredictable oceans.