The rip-cord triggered version of the device was first introduced to the law enforcement and ice/water rescue community in September of 2002. Two hundred fifty of the devices were distributed to Sheriff's Department deputies, Fire Department personal, Police Department officers, Department of Natural Resources conservation officers, National Park Rangers, State Patrol officers, Border Patrol Agents, and Coast Guard officers in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Alaska and Canada. The device is now used by walking First Responders in these organizations by simply attaching the tether of the device to their belt, inflating the device, and crabwalking and paddling out to the victim(s). These departments are also using the device as a safety tool on the snowmobiles and ATVs they use to patrol lakes and rivers.
