Learn rescue procedures with lifeboats, including key techniques like Tension Diagonal, Tether Systems, and Fiberlight Cradle for safe water rescues.

In recent years, due to abnormal weather and sudden heavy rains nationwide, water-related accidents have been frequent. Here, we describe rescue methods using lifeboats.

Non-Powered Boats

Non-powered boats do not use an outboard motor but move by using oars or water currents.

Tension Diagonal

Set a rope diagonally across the river at about a 45-degree angle. Attach the boat to the rope with a carabiner or similar device. The boat can move along the rope downstream to reach the opposite bank.

Tether System

By attaching a single rope to the stern of the boat, you can ferry the boat across the river using the theory of the ferry angle (approximately 45 degrees to the water flow). Using two ropes makes the process more efficient.

Two-Point Tether System

Attach two ropes to the D-rings of the boat and approach the person needing rescue by operating from two directions.

Ladder Platform

This rescue method delivers the boat to the person stranded on rocks or an islet without having the rescuer enter the water. The boat is attached to a triple ladder and guided by ropes.

1. Attach a triple ladder and guiding rope to the boat.
2. Operate the ladder and guiding rope to reach the target location and rescue the person in need.

Powered Boats

Powered boats have engines such as outboard motors. If handled by unskilled individuals, they can be extremely dangerous.

Basic Principles

The operator is responsible for the boat’s operation and safety. Like driving a vehicle, accidents can lead to administrative penalties, criminal responsibility, and civil liability. Many small boat accidents are due to low awareness of the operators. Operators must be the highest authority in boat operation, demonstrating quick and sure actions with calmness based on experience. Continuous improvement in knowledge and skills is necessary to understand and judge ever-changing conditions on the water correctly and conduct safe and effective boat rescues.

Red Zone

The “Red Zone” is the area within reach of the operator and crew on the boat, where rescuing the person in need takes place. It’s also an area that requires careful attention to avoid obstacles. The Red Zone includes both above and below the water surface, necessitating caution regarding underwater depth, reefs, and other obstacles to avoid boat damage.

Rescue Procedures

Boat rescue is a dangerous activity. The choice of rescue methods should prioritize the safest and most reliable option without relying solely on the maneuverability of powered boats.

Rescue Equipment

• Floating stretcher
• Throw bag and life ring
• Thermal blanket
• AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

Searching for the Person in Need

• All crew members should keep a lookout in all directions to find the person needing rescue.
• Collaborate with land-based teams to gather information.
• All crew members should constantly look out and communicate changes in water depth, obstacles, and the environment to the operator.

Approaching and Securing the Person in Need

• Upon locating the person, assess wind and wave conditions to approach safely.
• The crew should point to the person and report to the operator to avoid losing sight.
• The operator should reduce speed to the minimum engine RPM within 20-30 meters of the person.
• Once the boat is in a position to secure the person, the operator should neutralize the gears or stop the engine, and the crew should quickly secure the person.

Points to Remember

• Instruct the person to float on their back and wait while ensuring they can breathe if possible.
• Rescue the person from the side of the boat where the operator has better visibility.
• If the distance is considerable, avoid leaning out of the boat and use throwing devices or poles to bring the person closer.

Lifting and Boarding the Person in Need

• If the person can board by themselves, assist them by grabbing the lifeline and helping them onto the boat.
• If the person cannot board by themselves, the crew should lean out and secure the person, lifting them into the boat.
• Once onboard, position the person with their head towards the bow and provide thermal care.

Points to Remember

• Avoid falling into the water during the lifting process.
• Pay close attention to avoid the person’s body parts getting caught in the propeller during lifting.
• Maintain balance to prevent capsizing during the lifting process.

Fiberlight Cradle

The Fiberlight Cradle is a tool that minimizes the physical burden on the person in need when pulling them into the lifeboat and is easy to set up and use.

Reference page: Learn essential swift water rescue techniques like swimming rope rescue, simple rope tether, live bait rescue, and V-lower. Discover step-by-step training scenarios, key safety tips, and expert guidance to master water rescue operations.

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