Swift Water Advanced Rescue Device (SWARD)

The Swift Water Advanced Rescue Device (SWARD) was initially designed by David Hayles, a highly-trained water rescue professional, in response to swift water rescue needs within the Los Angeles River system, a heavily cemented waterway. The SWARD is a quick-deploying portable safety device, ideally suited for a rescue situation where there is no stable footing.

What is the SWARD?

The Swift Water Advanced Rescue Device is quick-deployment net laddering system. The safety device was designed to be strong, yet allow debris to flow away or easily be removed. The 1st line constructed of 7,500 lb commercial grade polypropylene rope, elected for it’s strength & buoyancy rating. The 2nd line is constructed of industrial grade (+14,500 lbs tensile strength) polyethylene rope .

The device anchors vertically to bridge overpass or any stationary object such as the front eye of a fire truck. It hangs down into rescue or catch zone to sift victim from the water or hazardous area.
Its tough yet flexible construction provides a versatile climbing form for descending / ascending into or out of the danger zone.

The SWARD is patented with the US Patent Office.

Applications

This multi-versatile safety device was designed for water rescues from aqueducts, rivers and lakes. Its design makes it an excellent ice rescue tool, as well as an extremely effective help in embankment and cliff rescues. In wilderness areas, where rescues are often difficult due to terrain and weather, the SWARD can be deployed on weak slopes, and in holes and crevasses.

Why use the SWARD?

The Swift Water Advanced Rescue Device helps rescuers not become victims themselves during the rescue by providing a stable platform. This stability and ease of deployment gives valuable access to any hazard zone or precarious situations. The strong design and materials allow the SWARD to handle multiple victims and rescuers at the same time.
It’s 100% buoyant, flexible enough to wind through a honey-combed cave, and bright enough to lead the way out.

Most of all, the sturdy and open ladder design allows victims to help themselves which keep less rescuers from being hurt.