Testimonials about Swift Water Advanced Rescue Device (SWARD)

Dear Grantmaker,

I am writing on behalf of Hayles, Inc., home of the Swift Water Advanced Rescue Device known as the S.W.A.R.D. 

I had the opportunity to meet with Mr. David Hayles, and see a presentation on the S.W.A.R.D.  This lightweight, collapsible and quick deploying egress ladder, which can be dropped into the seas, rivers, and aqueducts to reach a victim, is ideal for keeping the rescue swimmers safe and secure on the net while attempting a rescue.

The S.W.A.R.D. has been taken to the next necessary, feasible and practical level of evolution by Hayles, Inc.  It requires little extensive training, and uses existing Swift Water Technique's to add to the ways it can been deployed.  The versatility of this product allows for deployment in various emergency situations, thus allowing for risked based decision making for the field personnel.  This product meets the needs of both victims and rescuers by allowing either to help themselves out of a situation, which further lessens the risk of actually having to send in a rescue swimmer.

This product has been successfully tested by several emergency service departments, which have provided exceptional feedback.

In my career with the U.S. Coast Guard I have seen many products, but here is finally one that makes sense. With the increase in catastrophic emergencies such as flooding and earthquakes, throughout the United States and abroad, this product will add great value to emergency response capabilities.   Furthermore, the product is also an efficient and inexpensive product for use by first responders that will more importantly ensure their safety.

Finally, it is my personal opinion that the S.W.A.R.D. be appropriately funded, produced and disseminated to the field as the next generation product of rapid deployment rescue equipment.

Respectfully,

LCDR Luis E. Martinez, USCG
1100 Sixth St. S.W., Suite 11-711
Washington, DC 20024