What type of equipment is a life raft?

A life raft is specifically designed for use in emergency situations, particularly for ship abandonment. It serves as a crucial piece of safety equipment that provides immediate flotation and shelter for individuals who must evacuate a vessel due to circumstances such as sinking, fire, or other emergencies at sea.

When deployed, life rafts are capable of maintaining buoyancy and offering protection from the elements, making them an essential component of maritime safety protocols. Unlike flotation devices intended for swimming or recreational use, a life raft is built to accommodate multiple people and is equipped with features that enhance survivability in emergency conditions.

The function and purpose of a life raft are distinctly defined, which is why the characterization as a raft used in emergency ship abandonment accurately reflects its critical role and utility in maritime operations, distinguishing it from other types of equipment such as fishing tools or transport means.