New water rescue equipment unveiled in Suffolk
The public are being urged to ‘Be Water Aware’
Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service has invested in specialist equipment to help with water rescues.
The Service has acquired two Zodiac ERB 400 powered rescue boats and three Extreme Sleds from Ionic Rescue.
The boats are designed for swift deployment in challenging water conditions. The sleds can be used in fast moving water and mud/soft ground rescue operations.
The Service has also introduced a dedicated water rescue vehicle.
Prevention is key
The fire service say that even though the new equipment will enhance its capability to respond effectively in water rescue emergencies, public protection is not only about reaction, prevention is just as critical.
SFRS is supporting the National Fire Chiefs Council’s (NFCC) Be Water Aware campaign, running from 28 April to 4 May. This annual initiative aims to raise awareness of the risk of accidental drowning and provides essential safety advice ahead of the warmer months.
Key water safety tips include:
• Never swim alone
• Check weather conditions before entering the water
• Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming
• Always supervise children near water
• Be aware of hidden dangers in open water, such as strong currents or submerged objects
• Pay attention to safety signage near water, which can provide crucial warnings
Councillor Steve Wiles, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for public protection, said:
“Suffolk’s waterways, while undoubtedly beautiful can also pose a significant risk to safety. This increases substantially during warm weather when people are more drawn to the idea of coastal and inland swimming.
“The new equipment will enhance the Service’s water rescue capabilities, affording the public even greater protection when temperatures rise this year. Of course, SFRS would rather people didn’t get themselves into difficulty in the first place, which is why it supports the Be Water Aware campaign, urging everyone to share water safety tips with their friends and families to keep them safe from harm.”
Following two recent rescues, SFRS is also urging members of the public who are planning to head out on boats during the warmer weather to check tidal times and weather patterns in advance. Whether kayaking, paddleboarding, or using a motorboat, it is vital to carry sufficient supplies, including drinking water, lifejackets, communication devices, and fuel if appropriate.