Included in the outfit of lifeboats and other emergency craft, collapsible bailers like this were intended to remove water brought on board by waves, spray, or rain.

A long line (left) kept the bailer from being lost, and also allowed it to be put into the water, where it would act as an improvised drogue, or sea anchor, helping to keep the lifeboat or raft facing into oncoming waves. The braking effect of the drogue also reduced drifting caused by wind, and therefore helped searchers locate survivors.

Lifeboat Bailer
CWM 19801044-019