Summer is approaching, and that often means the beach will be a popular destination. And of course we know that beach safety is really important. People can easily find themselves in a dangerous situation when out in the water. If a rescue is needed, the first responders can find themselves in an equally dangerous scenario. Recently along the Gulf Coast in Alabama, two teenagers found themselves in a dangerous situation on the water and in need of rescue. Instead of a first responder pulling them back to shore, a newer device called U SAFE was deployed to rescue them. A human was not needed, a water rescue robot went instead. How did that work? Let’s chat.

Why did the teens needing rescue?

At a beach in Fort Morgan, Alabama, a strong current on the gulf pushed two teens riding on a float further offshore.

What is the U SAFE?

The U SAFE is an unmanned, remotely controlled, self propelled flotation device. It can be sent to a person struggling in the water, so they can grab on. Afterwards, the person holding on to the U SAFE can be guided back to safety. I think of it as a robotic lifesaver that can be directed to a distressed person in the water and transport them to a safer location. First responders can control the U SAFE from a safe location.

How would this benefit the rescue?

The U SAFE device allowed for a safe rescue that did not endanger personnel. Water rescues can be difficult for first responders because victims in the water can end up fighting the rescuers. They don’t fight out of anger, but out due to panic, desperation, and/or confusion. Some articles about this rescue noted that a deputy in the area died a few years ago while rescuing someone else. This device reduces the need for responders to even get in the water and therefore avoid more danger.

My Take

I really love to see how technology can improve our lives. This device truly solves a real problem. U SAFE is not the only water rescue robot out there. I also found the Dolphin 3 and the EMILY. Check them out in Explore More.