A rescue buoy or rescue tube is an essential part of the equipment that must be carried by lifeguards. The Rescue tube is a long foam flotation device that, when needed, can help support the victims and rescuers weight to make a rescue easier. The tube is usually made of vinyl, and is buoyant enough to support the full weight of the rescuer and several victims. The tube has a long leash that the lifeguard wears around their body to tow the tube along while swimming a long distance. The rescue tube or buoy is usually red but can come of a variety of colors but usually says "Guard" or "Lifeguard" on it.