ACR RapidDitch Bag (2278)

Organized Emergency Equipment

The RapidDitch provides a dedicated place to store essential marine safety equipment so it can be carried together when leaving a vessel. Internal pockets and elastic daisy-chain organizers help separate smaller items, while exterior pockets provide quicker access to an EPIRB, GPS, or other equipment that may need to be activated immediately.

An external waterproof inventory card can be used to record the contents of the bag. Equipment can be selected according to the vessel, number of passengers, operating area, weather, and expected rescue time.

Buoyant Construction

Closed-cell foam gives the bag enough buoyancy to float with up to 25 lb. of equipment inside. This helps keep communication, signaling, and survival supplies above water and accessible after abandoning a vessel.

The RapidDitch is water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. Equipment that must remain dry should be stored in suitable waterproof containers or protective pouches inside the bag.

Survivor Tethering System

The removable shoulder strap converts into two 4-foot safety tethers. These can clip to life jackets to help keep survivors connected to each other and within reach of the bag while in the water.

The tether system is intended to support group organization and equipment access. It does not replace an approved life jacket, safety harness, lifeline, or other required survival equipment.

Visibility and Marine Durability

The high-visibility yellow exterior includes reflective material that can make the bag easier to locate. An attachment point is also provided for an optional locator light, which is sold separately.

The exterior uses rugged 600-denier polyester, while the interior liner is made from 210-denier polyester. Corrosion-resistant, self-repairing zippers are designed to withstand repeated use in marine environments.

Storage and Preparation

The bag should be packed in advance and stored in a dry, easily reached location where it will not be blocked by other equipment. Its contents should be inspected regularly so batteries, food, water, medications, signaling devices, and other dated supplies can be replaced when necessary.