Skip to content
Labugen

Rescue Can with Handles

Rescue cans give lifeguards a lightweight torpedo-shaped buoy that cuts through waves to assist swimmers.

Oblong rescue buoy with large side handles and a short safety strap.
Rescue Can with Handles
Print Download PNG

A4 format (landscape), black outlines on a white background · for home and classroom use

Advertisement

All coloring pages: Fire Truck Coloring Pages

More from this category

Similar coloring pages: Fire Truck Coloring Pages

Next step

What else can you print? Free, no account needed

Compact Rescue Cans with Integrated Side Handles

A rescue can, often referred to as a torpedo buoy, is a lightweight handheld flotation device carried by professional beach lifeguards. The oblong rigid plastic shell features large side handles for easy gripping and an attached safety strap worn across the rescuer's chest. Its streamlined shape allows lifeguards to swim rapidly through breaking ocean waves without experiencing drag, providing immediate flotation to individuals in deep water.

Fascinating Facts About Torpedo Rescue Buoys

The modern plastic rescue can was invented in the 1960s by a California lifeguard chief named Bob Burnside. Unlike soft foam floats, the rigid hollow plastic design allows the buoy to support multiple swimmers holding onto its side handles at once. The bright red torpedo buoy became a famous symbol of ocean lifeguards worldwide through coastal rescue television shows and beach safety campaigns.

Authentic Colors of a Torpedo Rescue Can

  • Hollow rigid shell: High-visibility international orange or safety red
  • Side handles: Integrated red or black heavy-duty molded plastic
  • Safety shoulder strap: Black or dark navy blue nylon webbing
  • Tow rope line: White or bright yellow floating polypropylene rope
Questions and answers

Frequently Asked Questions About Rescue Cans

Why is a rescue can shaped like a smooth torpedo?
The narrow, tapered ends reduce water resistance so lifeguards can swim at top speed while towing the buoy behind them on a lanyard.
How does a lifeguard use a rescue can during an ocean emergency?
The lifeguard straps the harness across their torso and swims out to the victim. Once there, they hand the rigid handles to the swimmer or wrap the strap around them for support.
What is the main difference between a rescue can and a soft rescue tube?
A rescue can is made of hard molded plastic with side handles, making it ideal for rough surf, while a rescue tube is made of flexible vinyl-coated foam that can bend around a victim's body.
Advertisement