A floatation device (20) includes a body transformable between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. A stiffener assembly (22) is movable between a first position and a second position. The stiffener assembly is biased into the second position. The stiffener assembly is operably coupled to the body such that movement of the stiffener assembly between the first position and the second position causes the body to transform between the retracted position and the extended position. During the transformation of the body between the retracted position and the extended position, a partial vacuum is created within the body to inflate the floatation device.