LS10.4 SAR RESOURCE CHARACTERISTICS

Section: LS10 SAR Operations

Date: 20th September 2016

Page: 2 of 2 requirements are good manoeuvrability, seaworthiness, long range, relatively high speed and sufficient size to accommodate survivors and equipment. Naval vessels, offshore lifeboats, seagoing tugs, customs and pilot launches and patrol boats are of particular value because of their special equipment, including communications equipment, and trained personnel.

Rescue boats such as Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRBs) and Rescue Water Craft (RWCs) are short-range vessels capable of operating a limited distance offshore (less than 1nm) in good sea conditions.

Large rescue boats, such as SLS Offshore Rescue Boats (ORBs), Jet Rescue Boats (JRBs) and SLS Rigid Hull Rescue Boats (RIBs) have a greater range and capacity (as per their specific ‘vessel survey’ parameters).

Other sources of maritime assistance may include: a) Police vessels. b) Naval vessels. c) NSW Maritime vessels. d) Marine Rescue vessel. e) Customs vessels. f) Merchant vessels. g) Fishing vessels. h) Harbour craft, ferries, pilot launches and tugs.

Land Assets

A land based response in conjunction with Aerial/Maritime resources (or stand-alone if conditions dictate such) is important to an effective SAR operation.

Land based assets include:

• Emergency operations centre (EOC).

• Incident command post.

• ATV/4WD vehicles.

• Foot based search parties.