The new Tiger Swiftwater Breathing Apparatus (SWBA) system is set to take swiftwater to the next level in operator safety.
Dr Steve Glassey took the new Tiger Swiftwater Breathing Apparatus (SWBA) through it’s paces at Vector Wero Whitewater Park and the result was impressive.
The new second generation system (mask with integrated communications) was put through a Class V waterfall to test the devices limitations, as well as Class III-IV rapids.
“This changes swiftwater rescue completely. In highly aerated water, buoyancy efficiency is reduced like being in a pit of foam. This means the rescuer’s face is often transitioning from air to aerated water rapidly leading to aspiration of water. SWBA aims to disrupt the drowning process by keeping the mouth clear of water and preventing aspiration of water”.
Evaluation report to come!
