In One Ear: 'Indispensable tool'

There’s a new heavyweight in the water rescue venue, The TY-3R Water Rescue Drone, aka the TY-3R Flying Lifebuoy, made by Chinese drone company Didiok Makings, according to New Atlas.

At a time when speed is of the essence, instead of sending out a boat or having someone swim out, the drone, which is a combination of a quadcopter and a lifebuoy, can be sent quickly to the person in distress to hang onto until someone can get there to help.

The drone has a camera on board so the pilot, who uses a joystick, can get a real-time view. It has a communications range of 3,609 feet, a top speed of 29 mph, a runtime of 10 minutes per battery charge, weighs around 11 pounds and can keep up to two adults afloat after it hits the water and its motors shut off.

And, when the job is done, the drone can fly back to its takeoff location. It will also automatically fly back if it loses radio contact with the operator. The company describes it as a “truly indispensable tool” for water rescues, which is probably why it costs $11,803. (Photo: Didiok Makings)