A water activated release triggering mechanism is removably held to an exterior surface of a buckle housing and includes at least two probes and at least two batteries distributed between independent paths, for firing a squib. The distribution of batteries between independent paths precludes false firing from a single short with the body of the housing. The triggering mechanism is designed to be impervious to Electro Magnetic Interference (EMI) and to preclude false release in the presence of 20,000 volts of Electro Static Discharge (ESD). The triggering mechanism may be easily removed for servicing, replacement, or for upgrading. In one embodiment, the triggering mechanism causes the buckle to release in the same manner as during manual release.