Floatation devices, signalling flags and weapons are all incorporated into this apocalypse survival coat by Design Academy Eindhoven graduate Marie-Elsa Batteux Flahault.

Marie-Elsa Batteux Flahault created the On The Edge jacket after speaking to preppers, a group of people equipping themselves in case calamity strikes with little or no warning.

"I was exploring the end-of-the-world fever that expended with the 2012 Mayan prediction," Batteux Flahault told Dezeen. "While looking into this subject, I discovered the existence of the preppers. I was interested in their approach that is more pragmatic than the religious fanaticism, which is often depicted with this kind of theme."

She integrated a selection of potentially life-saving features into a pale camouflage jacket that might aid the wearer in the event of catastrophic disaster.

A visor and mask can fold over the face to provide protection for the eyes and respiratory system. Sections around the neck and base of the jacket inflate to create flotation devices.

A blade in the sleeve flicks out for when wearer is in need of a weapon and the hood is covered with diagrams depicting how to use the drawstring to inflict pain or create traps.

Water and food can be hoarded in pockets created in the lining, while bright orange flaps unfurl from zipped pockets at the sides for signalling to attract attention.

Gold-coloured foil unwraps from the hem to cover the legs, providing protection against the cold. Bandages for first aid are also attached to the back.

Batteux Flahault believes that other survival tools could be included in the jacket and that the functional components could be applied to other garments.

"For me the jacket is the image of a movement," she said. "All kinds of equipment could be featured in the jacket. I chose the jacket to show this principle but the way I see it, it could be applied to a whole range of objects."

The coat was shown during Dutch Design Week 2013, where other survival garments made from heavy-duty black tarpaulin were also exhibited. The day before the Mayan calendar ended in 2012 we published another fashion collection for surviving the end of the world.