Water rescue equipment
Here, you'll find out about the types of equipment we use to attend water rescue incidents and about the people who crew the vehicle.
What the water rescue equipment is
In basic terms, the water rescue equipment is an inflatable boat or raft. It's fitted with either a 30 or 50 HP outboard engine and some smaller items that are specific to different incidents.
The boat and engine are carried on a trailer. The remaining equipment goes in the towing vehicle to be transferred to the boat as and when needed.
They are used for inland water rescues (for example, from rivers) or in support of flood relief when rescuing victims from land, buildings, or if stranded by floodwater.
New rescue boat available at Bridgwater
A Pioner Multi boat based at Bridgwater is now available operationally.
The Pioner Multi's unique features and versatility make it an invaluable addition to the Service’s rescue fleet, improving our safety and efficiency at inland flood-related rescue incidents.
The Bridgwater area is known for its vulnerability to inland flooding. The station’s proximity to the M5 also enables easy access to other areas of the Service.
Key features
The Pioner Multi boasts a sturdy catamaran-like hull, providing an exceptionally stable platform for working in flooded environments. It is also an extremely manoeuvrable craft, helping to ensure its effective use in rescue operations.
One of the standout features of the Pioner Multi is the integral drop-down bow. Lowered by a winch, this innovative bow system offers a loading width of 92cm, providing ample space to accommodate wheelchairs and other bulky items. The easy loading of casualties and equipment will streamline our rescue operations, saving valuable time during emergency situations.
The Pioner Multi has a maximum load capacity of 1650kg, including the weight of the 60hp four-stroke outboard engine. With this increased carrying capacity, the craft can comfortably accommodate up to eight people, allowing for swift transportation of multiple casualties to safety.
The safety and efficiency of the Pioner Multi's operations are ensured by highly-trained Type B powered rescue boat personnel. Only firefighters who have completed the Type B powered rescue boat training and have then received the familiarisation driving of it are authorised to operate the Pioner. This ensures a skilled, proficient and safe crew during all operational incidents and training activities.
With the addition of the Pioner Multi to the Service’s rescue boat fleet, the craft will play a pivotal role in safeguarding lives during flood-related incidents. Its advanced features and specialised training for the crew enhance the capabilities of the rescue team, minimising response times and ensuring effective rescue operations. The Pioner Multi will be a vital asset in helping us respond quickly in order to help people and save lives.
Other craft used
The Avon Rib 3800 inflatable - mounted with a Mercury Mariner 30 HP engine - in transport mode.
Where it's used
The water rescue stations at Barnstaple, Camels Head (Plymouth) and Exmouth.
The New Dimensions Special Operations department also run a water rescue team.
How it's maintained
Maintenance of these crafts and engines is shared between the Fleet Maintenance team and dedicated local contractors.
People who crew the vehicle
An OIC (which stands for Officer-In-Charge), a driver and up to three other crew.
Equipment
Other than the equipment mentioned above, the equipment used during water rescues consists of:
- wet/dry suits (depending on the situation)
- Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) for casualty rescue use
- life jackets - for crew use
- flood wading poles
- floating throwlines
- signal flares.
The different types
- Rib 3800 and 4700 inflatable boats.
- 30 and 50 HP outboard engines.
The dimensions above are applicable to the Rib 3800 series.