A local man is hoping to save lives with a new invention called  the "Swimming Buddy."

It clips onto the back of a life jacket and bobs up behind the swimmer like a mini-tower.

The invention's creator, Armando Rositas, says the idea is to keep swimmers safe and visible to other boaters in the water.

He also says the "Swimming Buddy" could prove helpful if someone falls overboard.

To get your own, or for more information, visit www.swimming-buddy.com.