Fast-Deploying and Easy-to-Use Flotation Device to Save Lives

LAKEVILLE, Minn.--Each year, the deaths of over 50 recreationalists in the U.S. and Canada are attributed to drowning when snowmobiles and ATVs (All Terrain Vehicles) crash through thin ice. A partnership was forged between the University of Minnesota and JTW Associates to create a solution that can help save the lives of vehicle occupants. The Nebulus Emergency Flotation Device was developed to provide temporary flotation for submerged snowmobiles and ATVs as well as up to three riders.

The Nebulus Emergency Flotation Device is designed to be manually inflated by an emergency first responder or the rider when the recreation vehicle breaks through ice. Contained in a compact soft, rugged shell that is easily attached to any vehicle, the Nebulus Device uses two pressurized carbon dioxide (CO2) bottles to inflate an enclosed lift bag. Deployed when the rip-cord is pulled, the device’s inflated lift bag is capable of providing temporary flotation for up to 1,000-pounds of the submerged vehicle and riders.

“Thin ice is not easily identified on frozen lakes and rivers often used by recreational snowmobile and ATV riders,” said John Weinel, president and CEO of JTW Associates. “The Nebulus Emergency Flotation Device was developed to be fast-deploying and easy-to-use. The device also allows submerged vehicles to be easily recovered as they are tethered to the deployed raft, resulting in a more environmentally responsible and cost effective vehicle recovery.”

The Nebulus Device has been introduced to a wide selection of law enforcement and emergency first responders throughout the U.S. including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Alaska as a safety tool during rescue efforts. They carry or have attached the Nebulus device to their snowmobiles and ATVs they use to patrol lakes and rivers as well as tethered to the belts of rescuers as they assist victims.

About Nebulus Device

The Nebulus Device was invented in 1999 by JTW Associates, in order to find a solution to the many drowning deaths experienced each year when winter sports enthusiasts crash through thin ice. The first product brought to market by JTW, is the Nebulus Emergency Flotation Device. This fast-deploying, inexpensive and very compact life raft provides flotation for three adults above water, while also preventing a submerged snowmobile or ATV from sinking to the bottom. Currently over 1200 devices are in service with Emergency Responders in the U.S. and Canada. For more information call 1.800.682.8039 or visit www.nebulusflotation.com.