It is about time someone spent time working on something that would help to save lives as well as themselves. British designer Ross Kemp, came up with the idea for the ASAP vessel after participating in a lifeguard training course, and struggling to tow a body in the water.

Right now, lifeguards’ only options for saving lives are re-purposed leisure equipment, like paddleboards, and adapted jet skis, which are not always available because it is very expensive. Kemp saw the opportunity to design the equipment for the people, rather than adapting the people to the equipment.

The ASAP is a lightweight and affordable watercraft, and can be launched immediately by a single person. It has a platform for easily loading the injured very quickly, and the V-shaped hull cuts through waves to avoid rough movements. It is also solar powered, making it environmentally friendly as well.

Right now, the ASAP can travel up to 25km/h, but is still under development, and they are working to make the propulsion much stronger.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) claims drowning is the leading cause of accidental death around the world. In New Zealand alone, we expect 150 to 180 drowning victims every year. It is good to see people working together to make a difference and save lives!