Personal rescue strobe light
Maker
ARC Electronics Inc
Datec 1990
Object number00033500
NameLight
MediumPlastic, metal
DimensionsOverall: 110 x 70 x 27 mm
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from RANTEAA
DescriptionThis Firefly rescue lite, is a personal rescue strobe light made for underwater applications and used by Navy UDT and SEAL teams and commercial salvage divers. It flashes continuously for nine hours. It is made by ACR Electronics Inc, Florida, USA. Personal rescue beacons were recommended for yacht crews to increase their visibility in the water after the experiences of the massive search and rescue operations during the 1998 Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race.HistoryOn 27 December 1998 a raging storm struck the Sydney to Hobart fleet, with 80 knot winds and mountainous seas. An emergency air/sea operation rescued 55 sailors, and 71 of 115 yachts failed to finish. 5 sank and 6 men died. A Coronial Inquest held in 2000 recommended a complete upgrading of safety and rescue equipment, emergency procedures and weather warnings, and set a new minimum age of 18 years for race entry. The tragedy still reverberates in sailing circles.SignificanceThis strobe light is vital in situations of emergencies to pinpoint a precise location for rescuers. The 2000 Coroner's inquiry into the 1998 Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race recommended that crews of competing yachts should have a personal strobe light with them when on deck in all weather conditions.
